The Anambas Islandsin Riau Islands province is set to finish the expansion of its only commercial airport, Letung Airport on Jemaja Island, in September.

The airport's runway will be extendedto 1,430 meters from 1,200 metersas part of an effort to boosttourism.

Letung air transportation head Ariadi Widiawan said on Friday that with the completion of the overhaul, the airport would be able to welcome more small-sized aircraft, such as the ATR 72, a twin-engine turboprop airliner.

"We plan to open flights from Letung to Batam and from Letung to Ranai [in Natuna Islands]," he said.

Read also: Things to do while holidaying on the Anambas Islands

At present, private carrier Susi Air is the only airline that flies from Letung to Tanjung Pinang, the capital ofRiau Islands, once a week, carrying a maximum of 15 passengers.

Other flights are run by chartered airliners that typically serve tourists from overseas.

In addition to Letung Airport, the Anambas Islandsalso has a special airport,Matak Airport on Palmatak Island. It isoperated by oil and gas firm PT Medco E&P. The airport supports operational activities of Medco, local firm Star Energy Group Holdings and British oil firm Premier Oil.

With additional flights, the local government hopes to drawmoretourists to the region, Ariadi said.

Itwas also seekingto improve ferry services connecting Jemaja withother islands, he added.

Poor infrastructure has affected tourism in the Anambas Islands, which comprise 255 islands that arefamous for its beautiful lagoons and pristine coral reefs.

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Anambas Islands to finish airport expansion in September - Jakarta Post