Sam Ratulangi International Airport

Sam Ratulangi International Airport in Manado opened in the mid-20th century and today operates a single passenger terminal with separate domestic and international halls, serving as the main aviation gateway for North Sulawesi. This medium-sized airport handles a mix of domestic and regional international flights and is especially busy with tourists bound for Bunaken and the Minahasa highlands. Located roughly 12–15 km north of downtown Manado, it’s easily reached by taxi, airport shuttle and private car with onward connections to Bitung and nearby ferry ports. Generally affordable for travelers thanks to frequent low-cost services, it functions as a regional base for Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air and hosts regular services from Wings Air, Batik Air and Citilink.