DEO Airport gains international airport status

Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu inaugurated the change in status for the Domine Eduard Osok (DEO) Airport as an international airport at the Indonesian Navy Regional Command XIV in Sorong City, Southwest Papua during the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia (RI) on Aug. 17, 2025.

The launch was marked by the release of red and white balloons into the air by the governor along with Deputy Governor Ahmad Nausrau, Acting Southwest Papua Regional Secretary Yakob Kareth, regional government leaders, other members of the Regional Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda), the Indonesian Military (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (POLRI), the Southwest Papuan People's Consultative Assembly (MRP PBD), and other relevant parties.

Elisa stated that upgrading DEO Airport's status from a domestic airport to an international airport would create significant opportunities for Southwest Papua.

"DEO Airport has officially become an international airport. This will open direct flight access, including to Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. We hope it will become a new gateway that will bring progress to Southwest Papua," he added.

Elisa explained that the DEO Airport's international status facilitates transportation connectivity and strengthens Sorong City's position as an economic and tourism hub in Eastern Indonesia.

"In addition to improving public mobility, this international status will also attract investment, encourage trade, and strengthen the tourism sector. This is a historic moment and a special gift for the 80^th anniversary of RI," she said.

The inauguration of DEO Airport as an international airport is considered a significant milestone in the development of Southwest Papua, which is among Indonesia's newest provinces.