Flights to Balikpapan at a glance

Traveling to Balikpapan is easy, with numerous full-service airlines providing a range of flight options. You can compare journey durations and select the cheapest flight to Balikpapan or an expensive flight to Balikpapan that fits your itinerary, ensuring you have time to explore the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport in Balikpapan: Sepinggan International Airport (BPN)
• Flights per week: 7 flights arriving at Balikpapan airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Balikpapan: around 2 carriers

Popular airport in Balikpapan

Balikpapan is a vibrant city ideal for family getaways, business trips, and urban adventures. Visitors are drawn to its mix of entertainment and cultural experiences. The city is primarily accessed through Balikpapan Sepinggan Airport, which serves as the main gateway for travelers.

• Sepinggan International Airport (BPN): Situated in East Kalimantan, this airport caters primarily to domestic flights, offering passengers the option to upgrade to business class for enhanced comfort, depending on the specific routes and airlines. Key carriers at this airport include APG Airlines and Garuda Indonesia.

Top routes to Balikpapan

• Jakarta (CGK) to Balikpapan (BPN), with one-way tickets available from around $120

Cheapest routes to Balikpapan

• Jakarta (CGK) to Balikpapan (BPN), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $120

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Balikpapan

• APG Airlines: Operating flights to Sepinggan International Airport (BPN), APG Airlines represents about 62% of arrivals in Balikpapan. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $150, and premium cabins may feature business class based on the route.
• Garuda Indonesia: Also flying into Sepinggan International Airport (BPN), Garuda Indonesia accounts for roughly 38% of arrivals to Balikpapan. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of about $130.

How to save money on a flight to Balikpapan

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Balikpapan is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Balikpapan hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Balikpapan flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Balikpapan

Balikpapan welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Balikpapan efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Sepinggan International Airport, Balikpapan Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 7.7 miles away, making it easily accessible for travelers heading to the coast.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Balikpapan, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Balikpapan is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Balikpapan on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Balikpapan

• Sepaku: Located 33 miles drive away from Balikpapan, Sepaku offers a blend of city life and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy educational sites and shopping malls, making it a family-friendly destination. Key highlights include Kemala Beach, perfect for a beach getaway, and Bekapai Garden, an inviting urban park for outdoor activities. Don't miss Masjid Agung At-Taqwa, a cultural gem that showcases local architecture and community spirit.
• Sepinggan: Situated in the area of Balikpapan, Sepinggan is a vibrant village that caters to travelers seeking a mix of city and family experiences. The local shopping centres and malls provide ample opportunities for retail therapy. Explore Kemala Beach for sun and relaxation, or head to Bekapai Garden for some family-friendly outdoor fun. The Masjid Agung At-Taqwa mosque adds a cultural touch to your visit, offering insight into the local traditions.
• Manggarbesar: Nestled in the area of Balikpapan, Manggarbesar is a charming village that beckons beach lovers and families alike. With Kemala Beach nearby, it's an ideal spot to unwind or enjoy water activities. Families will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere at Manggar Sari Beach, which is perfect for a day out. Additionally, Bekapai Garden offers a lovely urban park experience, making it a great place for relaxation and outdoor fun.

Tips for short-haul flights to Balikpapan

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits effectively. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and bring along a book to keep yourself occupied. Be sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Balikpapan

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for long-haul flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines permit seat selection even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.