West Muna (January 16, 2026) – Sugimanuru Airport, located in West Muna Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, officially launched its inaugural round-trip flight from Ujung Pandang (UPG) to West Muna (RAQ) on Thursday (January 15). This route is served by Sriwijaya Air with flight numbers UPG-RAQ SJ534 and RAQ-UPG SJ535.
Operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, using a Boeing 737-500 aircraft with a capacity of 130 seats. Sugimanuru Airport itself has a runway measuring 1,600 x 30 m, capable of accommodating the largest aircraft, the Boeing 737-500. With a passenger terminal area of 1,800 m2, Sugimanuru Airport can serve 42,432 passengers annually.
The inaugural flight was attended by the Head of the Makassar Region V Airport Authority, Capt. Mauludin and Sriwijaya Air President Director Jefferson Irwin Jauwena attended the passenger manifest. Also present to welcome the inaugural flight were the Head of the Southeast Sulawesi Transportation Agency, Muh. Rajulan, the Regent of West Muna, La Ode Darwin and his staff, and the Head of the Sugimanuru UPBU Office, M. Khusnudin.
“This route directly connects Muna Island with Makassar, eliminating the need for long land and sea routes. This saves travel time and costs,” said Capt. Mauludin.
This route provides faster air access, allowing businesses to reach new markets and expand their business networks beyond the region more easily. Local goods such as seafood, crafts, and MSME products can be marketed to major cities.
“We hope that Sriwijaya Air’s arrival on Muna Island will not only improve connectivity for the people of Muna Island but also create new jobs, thereby increasing local incomes,” said the Head of the Sugimanuru UPBU Office, M. Khusnudin.
Furthermore, investment potential is expected to increase because business actors and investors can quickly access business opportunities in three regencies: Muna Regency, West Muna, and Central Buton.
From a tourism perspective, this route makes it easier for tourists to visit Muna Island. Known for its cluster of small islands with white sand and pristine seas, it is a major attraction. These include Rangku Island, Gala Kecil Island, and Indo Island.
“Going forward, we hope that flight activity at Sugimanuru Airport will continue to increase and we will serve more new routes,” concluded Capt. Mauludin. (CN/NF/RA/EP)
