Indonesia has earned the distinction of being the second-highest country in Asia for the number of airports, according to the CIA’s "World Factbook" data for 2024. With a total of 513 airports, Indonesia comes just behind China, which tops the list with 531 operational airports. This ranking includes both paved and unpaved runways, with some airports possibly not in active service but still counted in the total.
Indonesia's vast geography, made up of over 17,000 islands, plays a significant role in the high number of airports. Air travel is a critical means of connecting the various regions of the archipelago, many of which are difficult to reach by road or sea. These airports, large and small, serve as lifelines for transporting people, goods, and essential services across the country, making air connectivity a fundamental aspect of Indonesia’s infrastructure.
A Closer Look at Southeast Asia’s Aviation Infrastructure
The aviation infrastructure of Southeast Asia plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of its nations. In this regional context, Indonesia’s position as the country with the second-highest number of airports in Asia is notable. The Philippines, another archipelagic nation, ranks fifth in Asia with 249 airports. Similar to Indonesia, the Philippines relies heavily on its airports to connect its numerous islands and facilitate tourism, trade, and domestic travel.
Thailand and Malaysia, two of the region's most prominent tourist destinations, also make the top 10 list. Thailand has 108 airports, and Malaysia follows closely with 102. Both countries have well-developed aviation networks that support their robust tourism industries, which attract millions of international visitors each year. The presence of numerous airports helps these countries maintain a strong global connection, reinforcing their positions as key travel hubs in the region.
The Importance of Airports in Asia’s Largest Countries
Beyond Southeast Asia, other large countries in Asia also feature prominently on the list. India, with 311 airports, ranks third in Asia, reflecting the country's rapid growth in aviation infrastructure in recent decades. India’s large population and growing economy necessitate a widespread network of airports, both for domestic and international travel. Japan, with 279 airports, comes in fourth, showcasing its advanced infrastructure and emphasis on technological innovations in the aviation sector.
China’s first-place ranking, with 531 airports, reflects its massive size and economic growth. As the world's most populous nation and second-largest economy, China has invested heavily in airport construction to support its booming travel industry and expanding trade routes. The presence of numerous airports across the country allows for efficient transportation of people and goods, both domestically and internationally.
Southeast Asia’s Continued Growth in Aviation
Southeast Asia’s aviation industry has experienced steady growth in recent years, driven by the region’s expanding economies and increasing demand for both domestic and international air travel. Countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia have continued to invest in their aviation infrastructure, not only to support tourism but also to improve regional connectivity.
In Indonesia’s case, the number of airports is reflective of the nation’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for its diverse population across its many islands. Similarly, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia are likely to continue enhancing their aviation infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing middle class and increasing international travel.
Conclusion: Airports as Gateways to Growth
The number of airports in any country serves as an indicator of its level of connectivity and development, especially in a region as diverse and geographically complex as Asia. Indonesia’s second-place ranking is a testament to the country’s ongoing efforts to improve its transportation network, with airports playing a vital role in ensuring that even remote areas are accessible.
As air travel continues to expand in Asia, the number of operational airports will remain a critical factor in each nation’s ability to support economic growth, tourism, and domestic mobility. The presence of these airports, both large and small, reflects the importance of air infrastructure in fostering regional development and maintaining global connections.
