Bario Airport
Overview
Bario Airport (IATA: BBN, ICAO: WBGB) is a small airport serving the remote
town of Bario in the Kelabit Highlands of Sarawak, Malaysia. It plays a
crucial role in connecting the isolated highland communities to the rest of
the country, primarily facilitating travel and transport in and out of this
rugged and scenic region.
Bario Airport is situated approximately 1,100 meters above sea level in the
heart of the Kelabit Highlands. This region is known for its stunning
landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the unique lifestyle of the Kelabit
people. Due to its remote location, the airport is essential for the
movement of people, goods, and medical supplies, providing a lifeline for
the residents of Bario and neighboring villages.
Facilities
Given its small size and limited infrastructure, Bario Airport offers basic
facilities to meet the essential needs of travelers:
Terminal Building: The terminal is a simple structure with basic amenities.
It includes a waiting area for passengers and a small check-in counter.
Runway: The airport has a single asphalt runway, which is relatively short,
catering mainly to STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft. The runway's
length and the surrounding terrain limit the size of aircraft that can
operate here.
Baggage Handling: Baggage handling services are minimal, reflecting the
airport's limited scale of operations.
Parking: There is a small parking area near the terminal for vehicles.
Public Transportation
Public transportation options in and around Bario are limited due to its
remote location:
Taxis and Private Vehicles: Upon arrival, passengers typically rely on
pre-arranged taxis or private vehicles for transportation to Bario town and
nearby villages.
Walking: Given the close proximity of the airport to the town center, many
passengers simply walk to their destinations.
Airlines and Destinations
Bario Airport is served primarily by
MASwings, a subsidiary of
Malaysia Airlines
that specializes in rural air services. The main route is:
MASwings: Operates daily flights between Bario and Miri, the nearest
major city. These flights are usually conducted with small aircraft, such as
the Twin Otter, capable of handling the short runway and highland terrain.
Conclusion
Bario Airport is a vital infrastructure component for the Kelabit Highlands,
ensuring connectivity and access for its remote communities. While the
facilities are basic, the airport's role in supporting the region's social
and economic activities cannot be overstated. The presence of regular
flights by MASwings helps maintain a crucial link to the outside world,
fostering tourism and aiding in the transportation of essential goods and
services.
The airport is a major tourism gateway for visitors wishing to experience
jungle trekking in Bario Kelabit Highland.
Contact Information
Miri Airport
P.O. Box 851
98008 Miri
Sarawak, Malaysia
(Under the supervision of Miri Airport : STOLport Bario)
Tel: +6085 615 204
Fax: +6085 614 537
For more airport information, please visit https://www.malaysiaairports.com.my
undo Malaysia Airports