Kediri (Dhoho International)

Dhoho International Airport is not just another transport hub, but a new modern air portal in the heart of East Java. Located near the city of Kediri, it opens direct access for travelers to unique cultural and natural treasures of Indonesia that were previously in the shadow of larger tourist centers. As the first airport in the country built entirely on private investment, Dhoho symbolizes a new era in the development of the region's infrastructure and promises to become a key gateway for its exploration.

One of the main features of Dhoho Airport is its modern infrastructure. The long runway (3,300 meters) is capable of accommodating the largest wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350, which opens up prospects for long-haul flights in the future. The spacious and bright terminal is designed with a focus on passenger comfort and service efficiency, offering all the necessary amenities for a pleasant start or end to a journey.

The airport has enormous strategic importance for the entire region. It significantly reduces travel time to popular attractions such as Mount Kelud and provides an alternative route for those heading to the southern slopes of Mount Bromo. For residents and guests of the southern part of East Java, Dhoho Airport has become a convenient alternative to the busier Juanda Airport in Surabaya, saving several hours on the road. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the less explored but no less exciting corners of Indonesia.

There are several ways to contact Dhoho Airport (DHX) representatives or get up-to-date information. Since the airport was opened recently, it is recommended to check the data on official resources.

• Official website: The most reliable source of information — dhoho.international-airport.co.id. Here, current news, flight schedules, and passenger rules are published.
• Information line phone: At the moment, a single public phone number for inquiries is not advertised. For questions related to your flight, it is recommended to contact your airline's call center directly.
• Airport address: Jl. Tol Kertosono - Kediri, Grogol, Kecamatan Grogol, Kabupaten Kediri, Jawa Timur 64151, Indonesia.
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website, if available.
• Social media: You can follow the airport's life and operational information on the official Instagram page: @dhoho.airport.
• Lost baggage information: If you have lost your baggage, you must first contact the Lost & Found service of the airline you flew with.
• Passenger support contacts: Assistance to passengers is provided by staff at the information desks in the terminal, as well as airline representatives.

You can get to Dhoho International Airport (DHX) from the city of Kediri and its surroundings in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located approximately 20-30 kilometers from the city center, and the trip usually takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and online services. This is the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport. In Indonesia, ride-hailing apps such as Gojek and Grab are widely used. A car trip through these services (GoCar or GrabCar) from the center of Kediri will cost a reasonable amount and provide "door-to-door" comfort. You can also use official taxi services. It is recommended to allow extra time in case of traffic jams, especially during peak hours.

Public transport. For budget travelers, there are bus routes connecting the airport with key points in the city and neighboring settlements. For example, DAMRI buses often serve new airports in the country. This is the most budget-friendly option, but you should check the current schedule and routes in advance as they may change. There is currently no direct rail or metro link to the airport.

Car rental. If you plan to travel extensively around the East Java region, renting a car can be a great solution. This will give you maximum freedom of movement. You can rent a car at one of the local or international rental offices. Dhoho Airport has parking where you can leave your car during your absence.

Alternative airports. For travelers looking for more flight options, it is worth considering flying into larger neighboring air hubs. The largest in the region is Juanda International Airport in Surabaya, from where you can reach Kediri by train or car in about 2-3 hours. Other options include airports in Malang or Solo.

Dhoho International Airport (DHX) is a new and modern air harbor located in the city of Kediri (Indonesia). The airport was opened quite recently, so its infrastructure is characterized by thoughtfulness and comfort, while remaining fairly compact compared to major global hubs.

The structure of the airport is simple and intuitive, making it convenient for travelers visiting this region of East Java for the first time.

Number of terminals and their purpose

Currently, Dhoho Airport has one passenger terminal. This modern building serves both domestic flights (primarily connecting Kediri with Jakarta) and is prepared to receive international routes in the future. Thanks to the unified structure of the terminal, passengers do not need to worry about complex transfers — all necessary services are under one roof.

Airport layout and navigation

Navigation in the DHX terminal is simplified as much as possible. The building is designed so that the passenger flow moves linearly and without delays. Clear signs in English and Indonesian are installed everywhere.

• The departure area is usually located in the main part of the terminal, where check-in counters and security checkpoints are situated.
• The arrival area is on the same level or a floor below, providing quick access to baggage carousels and transport stops.

Transfers between terminals

Since the airport consists of a single terminal, there is no need for shuttles, trains, or long walks. The distances between the check-in area and the boarding gates are small, which is especially convenient for passengers with children or heavy luggage. The entire path can be covered on foot in a few minutes.

Features of departure and arrival zones

The terminal's interior is made in a modern style with elements of local culture. Comfortable waiting rooms are provided in the departure zone. Despite the fact that the airport is new, basic amenities are already beginning to appear: small cafes and shops with essential goods. The arrival zone is designed for the fastest possible completion of formalities and baggage claim.

Time for procedures

One of the main features of Dhoho Airport is the absence of large queues.

• Check-in and baggage drop-off: Usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes.
• Security screening: Passes quickly and efficiently thanks to modern equipment.
• Passport control (for future international flights): Counters are already provided, but at the moment only document checks for domestic flights are relevant.

Navigation recommendations

Upon arrival at DHX, take care of your transfer in advance, as the choice of public transport may be limited compared to large cities. The most convenient way to get to the city or hotel is to use an official taxi or popular ride-hailing apps in Indonesia.

The history of Dhoho International Airport (DHX) is not a story of decades of gradual development, but a vivid example of modern and rapid construction. The airport is one of the newest in Indonesia and represents an important infrastructure project for the city of Kediri and the entire East Java region. Its history began very recently, and the official opening for commercial flights took place in the spring of 2024.

A key feature of Dhoho Airport is that it became the first in the country to be built entirely on private investment. The project was implemented by one of the largest Indonesian companies, PT Gudang Garam Tbk. Construction began in 2020, and the airport was built from scratch according to the most modern standards. It was designed with a long runway (3,300 meters) capable of accommodating large long-haul aircraft, which from the very beginning laid in it a huge potential for the development of international transportation.

The main historical event marking the start of operations was the landing of the first commercial flight. This landmark event for the region occurred on April 5, 2024, when a Citilink airline aircraft landed at the airport. This day effectively opened a new chapter in transport accessibility and economic development for Kediri and its surroundings.

Since the airport is brand new, it is too early to talk about large-scale reconstructions. On the contrary, it is an example of how modern technology and thoughtful planning allow for the immediate creation of a facility that meets high international requirements. An interesting fact: the name of the airport, "Dhoho", has deep historical roots and refers to the name of the ancient capital of the Kediri Kingdom, which flourished in this region many centuries ago. This symbolizes the link between the region's rich past and its ambitious future.

Dhoho International Airport (DHX) is a modern and developing transport hub. As the airport infrastructure continues to take shape, passengers already have access to a set of key services designed to make the wait for a flight comfortable and convenient.

In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before departure, as well as shops with essential goods and souvenirs. For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices allow you to always stay in touch.

Comfortable lounges are equipped for waiting for flights. Financial matters can be resolved at currency exchange points or by using ATMs located in the terminal. In case of illness, passengers can contact the medical center for first aid.

The airport strives to ensure convenience for all categories of travelers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for families with young children. Passengers with disabilities are provided with the necessary escort and assistance for unimpeded movement through the terminal.

As the airport develops, the list of services will expand, including the appearance of new shops, restaurants, and lounges of increased comfort. For travelers who need a long rest between flights, various accommodation options in hotels are available in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

Since Dhoho International Airport (DHX) opened very recently, the terminal's gastronomic map is in the stage of active formation. At the moment, the choice of establishments here is more modest than in large hubs like Jakarta or Bali, but passengers will certainly not go hungry. The main focus is on supporting local producers and introducing guests to the culinary traditions of the Kediri region.

Cafes and restaurants: where to eat

Most food outlets are concentrated in the public area (landside) on the first floor, accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off. In the "sterile" departure area (airside), after passing security, the choice is limited to small kiosks and cafeterias where you can get drinks and snacks before boarding.

The basis of the assortment consists of:

• Coffee shops and bakeries: Here you can find popular chain establishments in Indonesia offering fragrant coffee buns (roti), puff pastries, and local coffee. This is an ideal option for a quick breakfast.
• Local cuisine food court (UMKM): The airport actively promotes small businesses, so a zone for local cafes is designated here. This is the best place for a full meal.
• Mini-markets: Convenience store chains offer packaged sandwiches, instant noodles, chips, chocolate, and soft drinks.

Local delicacies: what to try

While in Kediri, even in transit through the airport, it is worth paying attention to the signature dishes of East Java. The menus of local establishments often include:

• Soto Kediri (Soto Kediri): A fragrant chicken soup with coconut milk, served with rice. It is distinguished by a rich taste and yellow broth.
• Nasi Pecel (Nasi Pecel): Boiled vegetables under a thick peanut sauce, served with rice and crispy crackers (rempeyek). This is a hallmark of the region.
• Tahu Takwa (Tahu Takwa): The famous yellow tofu from Kediri. At the airport, it is often sold fried as a snack or as a souvenir in gift packaging.

Dietary options and special requests

Indonesia is a country with a predominantly Muslim population, so the organization of food at the airport has its own characteristics:

• Halal: Virtually all food and drinks at Dhoho Airport are halal by default. Certification is strictly observed.
• Vegetarians and vegans: The best choice would be Nasi Pecel (specify not to add shrimp to the crackers) or Gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Tempeh and tofu dishes are also always available.
• Gluten-free: There may not be specialized gluten-free items on the menu, but rice-based dishes (without soy sauce) may be suitable. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff.

Prices and opening hours

The price policy at DHX airport is quite democratic. The cost of dishes here is only slightly higher than in the city and significantly lower than in the capital's international airports.

• Average check: A light snack with coffee will cost about 30,000 – 50,000 IDR (Indonesian Rupiah). A full lunch with a local dish and a drink will cost around 50,000 – 80,000 IDR.
• Opening hours: Most establishments open an hour before the first departure (usually around 06:00 AM) and close after the departure of the last flight. There are no 24-hour restaurants in the terminal at this stage.

Recommendations for passengers

If you plan to have a hearty meal, it is better to do so in the public area before passing through security, as the choice is wider there. For a quick snack before the gate, coffee shops in the departure area are suitable. Travelers with special dietary needs are recommended to have a small supply of suitable snacks with them, as the range of specialized products is still limited.

To ensure your journey through Dhoho International Airport in the city of Kediri goes smoothly and without extra hassle, use our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, nerves, and money, making the start of your adventure in Indonesia as comfortable as possible.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2 hours. This will give you enough time to go through all formalities without rushing, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and security control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. Prepare all necessary documents in advance: passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass. When passing through security, be prepared to take laptops and other large gadgets out of your carry-on luggage, and pack liquids in a transparent bag according to the rules.

Choosing a seat on the plane. A window seat will give you great views during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat is more convenient if you plan to get up often. Passengers sitting in the front of the cabin usually exit the plane first. If you value silence, try to avoid seats near the galley and toilets.

Carry-on baggage rules. Be sure to put all your most valuable items in your carry-on baggage: documents, money, prescription medications, portable chargers, and fragile equipment. Remember the restriction on carrying liquids — no more than 100 ml in one container. It is forbidden to take sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances on board.

Passengers with connections. If you have a connecting flight, check at registration if your baggage will be automatically re-registered to your final destination. Study the airport map in advance to quickly find the right gate for your next flight. Leave a sufficient time gap between flights, especially if the transfer is to take place in a large hub.

Customs control. When entering the country, you will need to fill out a customs declaration. Honestly declare all goods subject to declaration. Familiarize yourself with Indonesia's customs rules in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises when bringing in souvenirs, alcohol, or tobacco products.

How to save money. Book tickets and airport parking in advance. Bring an empty water bottle with you to fill after passing through security. Instead of an expensive taxi, consider using public transport or transfers, if available.

What to do in case of flight delay. In case of flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline's counter. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Stay calm and follow the information on the departure boards and in the airline's app.