(Kompas.com/Made Asdhiyana)

Komodo Airport in Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara will be upgraded to an international airport to support tourism in the area, an official said on Friday.

Ricard Djami, head of the East Nusa Tenggara Transportation Office, said that the change is to support both domestic and foreign tourist flow in and out of Labuan Bajo where Komodo dragons live.

"It is part of the government's effort to improve Komodo Airport to maximize the service it can provide in terms of arrivals and departures during the day and night. We are currently in discussion regarding its international airport status," he said as quoted by state news agency Antara.

The process of upgrading its status is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

Ricard said that flights from and to Komodo Airport had significantly increased in recent years following the Komodo National Park being officially declared one of the world's seven natural wonders by the New 7 Wonders Foundation in 2012.

The new status will mean the airport is fitted with more extensive equipment, including revamped runway lights, and extra service institutions such as customs, immigration and health related facilities.

Komodo National Park received 34,218 visitors up to June this year, park chief Helmi told Antara on Sept. 1.

He said the national park received a total of 67,089 visitors over the whole of last year. (rin)(+)

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