Flight
Pekanbaru to Balikpapan
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Pekanbaru to Balikpapan requires air transit as the cities are separated by the Java Sea. You will depart from Sultan Syarif Kasim II (PKU) and land at Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport (BPN). Flights typically connect through Jakarta (CGK) or Surabaya (SUB). The total journey time ranges from 5 to 8 hours depending on your layover duration.
Total Distance: Driving distance N/A; straight-line air distance 1,650 km.
Fastest Way
Connecting flight via Batik Air, total time 5 hours 15 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Connecting flight via Lion Air, starting from IDR 1,900,000.
Compare Pekanbaru to Balikpapan Routes
Flight
Connecting
Duration
6 hours
Avg Price
IDR 2,000,000 - 4,000,000
Operator
Lion Air / Batik Air
Route
PKU - CGK - BPN
Sepinggan Airport is one of the most modern in Indonesia; enjoy the facilities.
Travel Tips
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Airport AccessSepinggan Airport is located close to the city center, about 20 minutes by taxi.
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Booking StrategyBook your tickets at least two weeks in advance for better pricing.
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Dress CodeBalikpapan is a business-oriented city; smart-casual attire is recommended.
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ConnectivityPurchase a local SIM card (Telkomsel) for the best coverage in East Kalimantan.
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Weather PrepCarry an umbrella as tropical rain showers can occur unexpectedly.
Safety Tips
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Taxi SafetyUse reputable taxi companies like Blue Bird or ride-hailing apps.
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HydrationDrink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
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ValuablesKeep your electronics and documents in a hotel safe.
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EmergencyKnow the location of the nearest hospital in the city center.
People Also Ask
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Is there a direct flight?No, all flights from Pekanbaru to Balikpapan require a transit.
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What is the airport code for Balikpapan?The airport code is BPN.
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How far is the airport from the city?It is approximately 10 km from the city center.
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Can I take a ship?A ship journey is not practical due to the extreme distance and lack of direct routes.
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What is the best airline?Batik Air and Garuda Indonesia offer the most reliable service.
Quick Info
- From Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia
- To Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
June to August for the driest weather in East Kalimantan.
Things to Do in Balikpapan
1
Mangrove Center
Explore the Graha Indah Mangrove Center to see proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
2
Kemala Beach
A popular urban beach perfect for relaxing and enjoying local seafood at sunset.
3
Balikpapan Botanical Garden
A vast green space dedicated to the conservation of Borneo's unique flora.
4
Pasar Kebun Sayur
A traditional market famous for local handicrafts, gemstones, and traditional Dayak souvenirs.
Tags
Pekanbaru to Balikpapan flight
travel Riau to East Kalimantan
Sultan Syarif Kasim II to SAMS Sepinggan
Balikpapan travel guide
connecting flights Pekanbaru Balikpapan
Indonesia domestic flights
how to get to Balikpapan
flight duration Pekanbaru Balikpapan
