Nop Goliat Dekai Airport

Historical Context and Development Vision

The development of Nop Goliat Dekai Airport began with a vision to break the geographical isolation in the Yahukimo region, dominated by extreme topography. Grandly inaugurated by President Joko Widodo in October 2016, this project became a symbol of the "Nawa Cita" program, which prioritizes development from the periphery. The name "Nop Goliat" itself is taken from a local figure as a form of respect for the history and identity of the indigenous people of Yahukimo.

Technically, the construction of this airport faced extraordinary logistical challenges. Given its location, which is difficult to access by land, the main construction materials had to be transported via river and air routes. The successful completion of the approximately 1,900 square meter terminal is a significant achievement in civil engineering and project management in Indonesia's interior regions.

Design Philosophy: Adaptation of Honai and Ebe'ai Houses

The most striking architectural characteristic of Nop Goliat Dekai is its iconic roof shape. The architects who designed this building did not merely adopt a minimalist modern style but reinterpreted the basic form of traditional houses of the Papuan mountain communities, namely Honai and Ebe'ai.

The terminal's roof structure is designed with a curved silhouette resembling the mountains surrounding the Dekai region. The use of a layered roof with a steep pitch is not just for aesthetics; it is a smart response to the high rainfall in the Papua Pegunungan region. This design allows rainwater to drain quickly, preventing static load on the roof structure, while also creating high ceiling space for optimal natural air circulation within the building.

Interior Aesthetics and Materiality

Upon entering the terminal area, visitors are greeted by a blend of modern materials such as steel, glass, and composite with touches of ethnic motifs. One of the unique elements is the use of distinctive carving ornaments from the tribes of Yahukimo, applied to the main columns and interior walls.

The extensive use of transparent glass on the sides of the building offers two main advantages. Firstly, visually, the glass removes the boundary between the waiting area and the green natural landscape of Yahukimo, providing a calming visual experience for passengers. Secondly, technically, it maximizes natural lighting (daylighting), significantly reducing reliance on electricity for illumination during the day.

Structural Innovation and Aviation Safety

As an airport serving ATR 72-600 aircraft, Nop Goliat Dekai is equipped with capable technical specifications. The 1,950-meter-long, 30-meter-wide runway is built with reinforced foundations to withstand the characteristics of the local soil, which tends to be unstable.

The terminal building structure uses a lightweight yet rigid steel frame system, designed to withstand seismic shocks, as the Papua region is located on an active tectonic path. Innovations in the airport's drainage system are also noteworthy; an integrated open ditch system around the apron and runway ensures the operational area remains dry even during prolonged heavy rainfall.

Socio-Cultural and Economic Significance

Socially, Nop Goliat Dekai Airport functions as a "Modern Town Square" for the people of Yahukimo. The presence of this building has transformed the local lifestyle, with the airport becoming a symbol of pride and regional progress. Its grand architecture often becomes a local tourist attraction for residents who want to witness architectural technological advancements in their land.

Economically, the efficient terminal design allows for smooth passenger flow, supporting logistics distribution and the mobility of people to the Provincial Capital and surrounding areas. This airport has become the nerve center of life in Yahukimo, connecting 51 districts, most of which are only accessible by air.

Visitor Experience and Modern Facilities

The visitor experience at Nop Goliat Dekai is designed to provide comfort amidst a remote environment. The boarding lounge is equipped with ergonomic seating and spacious layout. The placement of commercial areas for local handicrafts within the terminal is also an architectural effort to empower the local creative economy.

The exterior area is decorated with gardens using local vegetation, creating harmony between the massive building and the surrounding tropical rainforest ecosystem. The parking area and pedestrian accessibility are designed to inclusive standards, ensuring ease of access for all segments of society, including the elderly from remote districts.

Conclusion: A Landmark in the Central Mountains

Nop Goliat Dekai Airport is proof that modern architecture can coexist with traditional values without losing its original identity. This building is not just about concrete, steel, and glass, but about hope and connectivity.

With a design that responds to the climate, respects local culture, and implements international safety standards, Nop Goliat Dekai stands tall as an architectural landmark in Papua Pegunungan. It is a monument to human success in conquering natural challenges through design innovation, while also serving as a welcoming home for every soul that lands on Yahukimo soil. Its existence will continue to inspire infrastructure development in other remote areas of Indonesia, demonstrating that progress does not have to sacrifice cultural roots.