Balikpapan Set to Have Heliport by 2027

NUSANTARA, KOMPAS.com - Whitesky Group CEO Denon Prawiraatmaja stated that his company will build a second heliport in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, in 2027 as part of developing the urban air mobility (UAM) ecosystem in Indonesia.

Denon said the construction of the heliport was previously prepared to support the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN).

“In 2027, we will establish it; we will have our second heliport in Balikpapan,” Denon said during a discussion in South Jakarta on Tuesday (12/05/2026).

According to Denon, by 2030, the company also targets developing heliports in Sulawesi and Sumatra to expand the vertical air transportation network in Indonesia.

In his presentation, Denon noted that Indonesia has significant potential for UAM development due to its archipelago characteristics and the need for inter-regional connectivity.

He stated that UAM implementation is not only aimed at passenger transport in major cities but also for logistics needs, mining, tourism, and aid distribution in remote areas such as Papua.

According to him, UAM development in Indonesia requires an ecosystem supported by the government, businesses, academics, media, and the public.

Denon also assessed that regulations are a key factor in the growth of the helicopter and UAM industry in Indonesia, including rules on night flying and visual flight operations.

In addition to heliport construction, Denon revealed that Indonesian-made UAM will begin test flights this year.

He said the aircraft will be showcased at the Heli Expo in August.

Denon explained that local UAM development is expected to open new job opportunities and support other sectors, from logistics and offshore to tourism.

According to him, Indonesia should not only be a market for global manufacturers but must also be able to reap economic benefits from the development of future air transportation technology.