By : Angelica Kaloke )*
Infrastructure development is often the main catalyst in driving economic growth in a region. The same thing is happening in Central Papua, where the development of Douw Aturue Airport in Nabire Regency is expected to bring fresh air to the local economy.The government, through the Directorate General of Air Transportation, Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub), in collaboration with the Government of Central Papua, has agreed on this development to improve air transportation services for the local community.This strategic step is not just about improving airport facilities, but more about improving connectivity and accessibility which will open up more economic opportunities. This is an opportunity for Central Papua to transform into a region with high mobility, so that it is able to compete and grow with other regions in Indonesia.Douw Aturue Airport, which was inaugurated by the President of the Republic of Indonesia in November 2023, now has a runway 1,600×30 meters long and can accommodate ATR-72 600 series aircraft. This airport already serves several important routes such as Nabire-Timika, Nabire-Manokwari, and Nabire -Jayapura with a fairly high flight frequency every week.However, the ambition to develop this airport does not stop there. There are big plans to extend the runway to 2,500×45 meters, allowing Boeing aircraft to land, as well as expanding the passenger terminal to 11,000 square meters with a passenger capacity of up to 573,700 per year.This step is not merely symbolic, but real and full of hope. As a new autonomous region, Central Papua is actively developing in various sectors. The development of Douw Aturue Airport is part of this effort, to make Nabire an important hub for air transportation in the region.With adequate infrastructure, it is hoped that not only the flow of passengers will increase, but also the flow of goods and services which will have a positive impact on local trade and tourism.The commitment of the Central Papua Government, as stated by Acting Governor Rebekah Haluk, is very clear. The airport is expected to be completed in November 2024, making it a great Christmas gift for the people of Central Papua.This is not just a dream, but a vision that is being realized. In fact, the regional government is actively encouraging other airlines to operate at this airport with larger aircraft such as Boeing, which will of course increase passenger occupancy (load factor) and strengthen this airport’s position on the national air transportation map.More than just the physical airport, this development also implies the importance of coordination and synergy between central and regional governments. Kristi Endah Murni, Director General of Civil Aviation at the Ministry of Transportation, emphasized the importance of coordinating with local governments to ensure the safety and security of flight operations.This is a shared responsibility, where spatial planning and strict monitoring will ensure that this development is carried out in accordance with international safety standards.On the other hand, tourism promotion and industrial sector development are the next focus. The regional government is expected to actively promote leading tourist destinations in Central Papua, so that it can attract more domestic and foreign tourists.Developing tourism will have a multiplier effect on the local economy, starting from increasing people’s income, creating new jobs, to developing related sectors such as hotels, culinary and handicrafts.The trade sector is also no less important. With adequate airports, distribution of goods will be more efficient and faster, reducing logistics costs and increasing the competitiveness of local products. This is a golden opportunity for business actors in Central Papua to expand their market reach, both nationally and internationally.Apart from that, the industrial sector is also expected to grow with supporting infrastructure, making Central Papua a potential new economic growth center in Eastern Indonesia.However, challenges certainly remain. Infrastructure development like this requires a lot of funds and good coordination between various parties. The central and regional governments must continue to collaborate with various parties, including the private sector, to ensure that this project can run smoothly and be completed on time. On the other hand, the community must also support this effort by maintaining and making maximum use of existing facilities.Optimism must continue to be maintained, because the development of Douw Aturue Airport is clear evidence that Central Papua is moving forward. It is a symbol of hope and a brighter future for the local community. With increasingly better infrastructure, it is hoped that Central Papua can develop more quickly and make a greater contribution to the national economy.The development of Douw Aturue Airport is not only about building physical buildings, but also building hope and a better future for Central Papua. This is an invitation for all parties, including government, society and business actors, to work together to realize this great vision.With a spirit of togetherness and hard work, Central Papua can become a successful example of infrastructure development that brings real benefits to the economy and welfare of its people. Let’s support and protect it together, for the sake of a more advanced and prosperous Central Papua.)* Papuan Students Live in Surabaya
