13 Airlines Plan New Direct Routes to Bali, Expanding Global Access

Thirteen international airlines are exploring the introduction of direct flights to Bali, aiming to connect the island with major markets including China, Russia, Japan, India, and the United States. These proposed routes are currently under consideration.

Handy Heryudhitiawan, the General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai Bali Airport, reported that several airlines have expressed interest in establishing regular flights to Bali. Although some have requested time slots, these routes have yet to be launched. Airlines that reserved slots for the 2023 dry season are still in the process of finalizing their market entry.

"Airlines need to undergo the process of reapplying for flight permits, which includes determining their schedules and choosing the appropriate aircraft," Handy explained. The airport is still awaiting final decisions from these airlines regarding their plans.

According to Tjok Bagus Pemayun, who heads Bali’s Provincial Tourism Office, a few of the proposed airlines, possibly three or four, are from China. Before the pandemic, Bali had direct flights from 15 Chinese cities, but these routes have not been reestablished.

Pemayun anticipates that these flights may begin by March 2023, although specific details on the airlines or cities involved have not been confirmed. Currently, Ngurah Rai Airport operates 24 international routes serviced by 29 airlines. Pemayun is optimistic that the revival of flights from China will help Bali reach its 2023 target of 4.5 million international tourists, with China being a major contributor.

South Korean Airlines Set to Launch Direct Flights to Bali

In a related development, South Korean airlines Air Busan and Jeju Air are preparing to introduce direct flights to Bali, driven by growing demand from South Korean travelers. Bali’s airport operator, Angkasa Pura I, has reported a significant increase in interest from this market.

"Bali continues to attract international flights due to strong global demand," noted Handy Heryudhitiawan.

Both South Korean airlines are finalizing their plans, with exact start dates still being determined. Jeju Air has already received clearance to operate flights from Incheon and Busan to Bali.

Currently, direct flights between South Korea and Bali are offered by Garuda Indonesia and Korean Air. Ngurah Rai Airport now supports 33 international routes served by 36 airlines, in addition to 19 domestic routes provided by 13 airlines.

In the first quarter of 2023, Ngurah Rai Airport recorded 5.1 million passengers, marking a 17 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. The airport has set a target of handling 23.6 million passengers by the end of the year.

Data from Indonesia’s Bureau of Statistics (BPS) indicates that South Korea was the fifth-largest source of tourists to Bali between January and April 2023. During this time, the number of South Korean visitors increased by 37 percent, totaling around 82,000.

In addition to the South Korean airlines, Etihad Airways has also launched direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Bali, starting in June with Boeing 787-900 aircraft.

Bali's Attractions Await Incoming Visitors

With the anticipated increase in direct flights, Bali is becoming even more accessible to international travelers, offering easier access to the island’s wide range of attractions.

Nature lovers can explore Bali’s beautiful landscapes, including the stunning Mount Batur and the iconic rice terraces, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. For those interested in culture, Bali’s sacred temples such as Uluwatu and Tanah Lot offer rich experiences. Beach enthusiasts can enjoy Bali’s famous beaches like Seminyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua, which are ideal for both water sports and relaxation.

For adventurers looking to explore beyond Bali, yacht charters provide an excellent opportunity to visit nearby islands. The Yacht Club Indonesia offers exclusive charters to destinations such as Komodo Island, renowned for its Komodo dragons, and Raja Ampat, which is celebrated for its world-class diving spots and diverse marine life. Other beautiful locations like Alor and Flores provide tranquil environments perfect for snorkeling, diving, and experiencing pristine natural beauty.