Sorong gets new airport

Sorong gets new airport

SORONG, Papua: The Sorong municipal administration has closed down Jefman Airport and instructed that all flights to and from the city land and depart at the new Domine Eduard Osok Airport, an official said on Tuesday.

The change was made official on Monday, in conjunction with the fifth anniversary of the city, Sorong Major JA Jumame said.

The new airport, which was built over a period of 15 years at a cost of Rp 120 billion (US$12.97 million), just needs some finishing touches.

He said the new airport was designed to accommodate mid-size jets like the Fokker 100 or Boeing 737 and passed inspection by the Directorate General of Transportation.

The mayor explained that his administration decided to close down Jefman Airport as it was impractical in that passengers had to go by boat to and from the small island where it was located.

As soon as the installation of all supporting facilities is complete, the airport will be inaugurated by Minister of Transportation Hatta Radjasa. -- Antara