Labuan Bajo Airport is Komodo Airport (IATA: LBJ) in West Flores, Indonesia — the airport you fly into to reach Komodo National Park. It is about 10 minutes from Labuan Bajo town and harbour; flights connect from Bali (Denpasar, ~1 hour) and Jakarta. There is no road to Komodo — the park is reached only by boat. Operated by Komodo Luxury.
The Airport: Labuan Bajo (LBJ) Location
Komodo International Airport (IATA: LBJ) is strategically located in Labuan Bajo, the capital of West Manggarai Regency on the western tip of Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. This airport serves as the primary gateway to the renowned Komodo National Park. Situated approximately 10 km from the town centre and main harbour, it’s a mere 5–15 minute drive away, making it highly convenient for travellers looking to explore the region.
Flights & Routes
Labuan Bajo Airport offers a variety of flight options. From Bali (Denpasar), airlines like Batik Air, Indonesia AirAsia, and Super Air Jet operate regular flights, typically taking around one hour. From Jakarta, Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, Indonesia AirAsia, and Super Air Jet (starting March 29, 2026) offer flights to Jakarta–Soekarno-Hatta, with a flight duration of approximately 2.5 hours. Internationally, AirAsia connects to Kuala Lumpur, and Scoot flies to Singapore. For domestic connections, Wings Air services routes to Bajawa, Ende, Kupang, Lombok, Maumere, and Susi Air flies to Waingapu.
Immigration & Visa on Arrival
Visitors arriving from within Indonesia are considered domestic passengers. International travellers must connect through Bali or Jakarta, where they will complete Indonesian immigration formalities. A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available for eligible international visitors at these major entry points, not directly at Labuan Bajo.
Terminal Facilities
The airport features a single main terminal catering to both domestic and international flights. While WiFi and ATM facilities are not explicitly confirmed, visitors often rely on mobile data or the various amenities in Labuan Bajo town, which is just a short taxi ride away. The terminal is modern and compact, without a dedicated lounge, and offers limited on-site dining options, with most cafes and restaurants located in the nearby town.
Getting from the Airport to Komodo
Access to Komodo National Park, including Komodo Island, is solely by boat from Labuan Bajo harbour. There are no road or ferry connections, making the harbour the jumping-off point for exploring the park. For more details, visit our guide on getting from Labuan Bajo Airport to Komodo.
Transfers & Fast Track
Given the airport’s proximity to Labuan Bajo town, transfers are straightforward, with taxis readily available. For added convenience, you can arrange a fast-track service to streamline your arrival and departure process. Learn more about this service on our Labuan Bajo Airport Fast Track page.
Where to Stay
While there are no hotels within the airport, Labuan Bajo town offers a variety of accommodation options a short 5–15 minute taxi ride away. Popular choices include Phinisi Labuan Bajo, Neptune Liveaboards, and several local hotels. For more information, see our transfer guide to help you reach your destination comfortably.
The Splendour of Padar Island
Padar Island is a must-visit destination for many travellers to Komodo National Park. Famous for its panoramic views, Padar is the third largest island in the park and offers an iconic landscape that’s become popular on social media. The island is known for its unique topography, featuring a series of jagged hills and three picturesque bays, each with different-coloured sand: white, black, and pink.
Hiking to the top of Padar Island is one of the highlights of visiting. The trek takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level, and is best undertaken early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a memorable view of the surrounding islands and the vibrant blue sea. Remember to bring water and sunscreen, as the trail can be quite exposed to the sun.
Exploring the Unique Pink Beach
Located on Komodo Island, Pink Beach is another highlight of the national park. The beach gets its distinctive hue from tiny red organisms called Foraminifera, which mix with the white sand to create a stunning pink shoreline. This natural wonder is perfect for snorkelling, as the waters are teeming with marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and a variety of fish species.
Visitors to Pink Beach can expect a quiet and serene environment, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty. It’s important to note that the beach is part of a protected area, so visitors are encouraged to minimise their impact on the environment by not taking sand or marine life and ensuring all rubbish is disposed of properly.
Manta Point: A Diver’s Paradise
Manta Point is one of the most famous dive sites in the Komodo National Park, attracting divers from around the world eager to witness the majestic manta rays. Located near Komodo Island, this dive site offers a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants as they glide gracefully through the water.
Diving at Manta Point typically involves drift diving, as the currents can be quite strong, but the experience is well worth it. In addition to manta rays, divers may also encounter a variety of other marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, and an array of colourful fish. It’s recommended to dive with a reputable operator familiar with the area, as they can provide valuable insights into the best times and conditions for diving.
Rinca Island: A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Rinca Island is another captivating destination within Komodo National Park and is renowned for its significant population of Komodo dragons. The island offers a more rugged and less touristy experience compared to Komodo Island, providing visitors with an authentic wildlife adventure. Rinca is home to diverse wildlife, including buffalo, deer, and various bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Guided tours on Rinca provide a safe and educational experience, allowing visitors to learn about the island’s unique ecosystem and conservation efforts. With several well-marked trails, you can choose between short and long treks, each offering opportunities to spot Komodo dragons and other wildlife in their natural habitat. As always, safety is paramount, so it’s crucial to follow the guidance of your tour leader.
Phinisi Tours: Sailing the Komodo Archipelago
Experiencing the Komodo National Park on a traditional phinisi boat is a unique way to explore the archipelago’s wonders. Phinisi boats, with their distinctive two-masted sails, offer a blend of tradition and modern comfort, providing a luxurious yet authentic cruising experience. These boats are equipped with amenities like comfortable cabins, dining areas, and sun decks, making them perfect for multi-day excursions.
Phinisi tours typically include visits to key attractions such as Padar Island, Pink Beach, and Manta Point, along with additional stops at secluded beaches and snorkelling spots. Prices for phinisi tours can vary depending on the duration and amenities, but travellers can expect to pay around USD 200 to USD 500 per day. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Understanding Park Fees and Entry Times
Visiting Komodo National Park involves paying an entry fee, which contributes to the conservation of this unique ecosystem. As of the latest update, the standard entry fee is approximately USD 10 for international visitors and USD 2 for domestic tourists. Additional fees may apply for activities such as diving or snorkelling, so it’s wise to confirm the total costs with your tour operator in advance.
The park is generally open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, with specific operating times subject to change based on weather conditions or conservation needs. It’s advisable to start your excursions early in the day to make the most of your visit and to enjoy cooler temperatures. Always check for the latest updates on park fees and timings before planning your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What airlines operate flights to Labuan Bajo?
Airlines such as Batik Air, Indonesia AirAsia, Super Air Jet, Garuda Indonesia, and Wings Air operate flights to Labuan Bajo Airport.
- Is there a Visa on Arrival available at Labuan Bajo Airport?
No, the Visa on Arrival is not available at Labuan Bajo Airport. It is issued at major Indonesian entry points like Bali and Jakarta.
- How far is Labuan Bajo Airport from the town centre?
The airport is approximately 10 km from Labuan Bajo town centre, with a travel time of about 5–15 minutes by car.
- How can I reach Komodo National Park from Labuan Bajo?
Komodo National Park is accessible only by boat from Labuan Bajo harbour. There is no direct road or ferry connection to the park.
For further assistance, plan your Komodo trip on WhatsApp.