The Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport (BPN) is the main airport serving Balikpapan, a coastal city in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. The airport is served by a number of airlines, including Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and AirAsia, and offers flights to major cities in Indonesia, as well as to destinations in Asia, including Singapore and Malaysia.
Balikpapan is known for its natural resources, including oil, gas, and coal, and is home to a large number of mining and oil companies. However, the surrounding area also offers a range of tourism options for visitors. One popular attraction is the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation, which operates a rehabilitation center for orangutans that have been orphaned or displaced due to deforestation. Visitors can observe the orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect the species.
Other popular tourist attractions in the area include the Mangrove Forests of Sungai Wain, which offer visitors the chance to explore the area’s unique ecosystem by boat or on foot. The city of Balikpapan itself also has a number of parks and cultural sites, including the Bekapai Park and the Monument Perjuangan Rakyat.
In addition to these attractions, the surrounding area of Balikpapan offers visitors opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, diving, and snorkeling. The nearby Derawan Islands are known for their coral reefs and marine life, making them a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Overall, the BPN airport serves as a gateway to the natural and cultural attractions of Balikpapan and the surrounding area.