Wamena, Papua Mountains — The long isolation that has been overshadowing the central mountainous region of Papua has officially ended. July 29, 2025 became a new milestone for Jayawijaya Regency, when Sriwijaya Air successfully carried out the first commercial flight to Wamena Airport using Boeing aircraft.
This historic momentum was warmly welcomed by the Governor of Papua Pegunungan, John Tabo, who was seen holding back his emotion when he watched the Sriwijaya Air plane land smoothly on the airport runway at 10.50 WIT.
“This is not just a moment of flight. This is the beginning of a big change for the people of Papua Mountains. We are no longer isolated. We are now connected,” said Governor John Tabo with teary eyes.
The flight not only brought a fresh wind of development, but also a number of important figures, including the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Ribka Haluk, who joined the group as a guest of honor.
Upon arrival in Wamena, the plane was greeted with a water salute spray from two fire truck units which became an honorable tradition in the world of aviation, marking the historic flight.
At the arrival gate, hundreds of local residents and traditional dancers of the Baliem Valley welcomed the arrival of guests with typical dances and songs, bringing enthusiasm and pride to the community for the opening of wider air access.
The presence of national airlines in Wamena opens up great opportunities for accelerated development in the mountainous Papua region, especially in the economic, education, health services, and mobility of goods and people sectors.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Ribka Haluk, in his speech stated that the central government continues to be committed to opening the isolation of the mountainous area of Papua and ensuring that every citizen has fair access to national development.
“Today we witness that Papua is not alone. The state is present, and this connectivity is a real form that development should not be left behind in any area,” said Ribka Haluk.
The presence of Sriwijaya Air with a direct flight route to Wamena is a real proof that the Papua Mountains are now increasingly open to the outside world. This air connectivity is expected to be an entrance for investment, faster and cheaper logistics distribution, as well as an increase in the tourism sector, especially the potential of the Baliem Valley Cultural Festival that has become global.
This step also emphasizes the spirit of equitable development and national integration. The people of Wamena, who have only relied on small aircraft and limited routes, can now dream bigger than Wamena, towards a more connected future.
