Indonesia AirAsia will restore direct flights between Darwin and Bali starting 22 March 2025, offering three weekly services. The route will deliver over 1,000 weekly visitor seats between Darwin International Airport and Ngurah Rai International Airport.
This strategic relaunch marks a significant milestone in Northern Territory’s post-pandemic aviation recovery. It will strengthen tourism and economic ties in the region, and provide a key Top End connection to the popular tourist destination of Bali.
Expanded Connections via Bali
The new connection provides Darwin travelers affordable access to more than 130 Asian destinations through Bali, which serves as AirAsia’s largest flight hub.
This extensive network connectivity positions Darwin as a key gateway for both leisure and business travelers seeking seamless access to Southeast Asia and beyond.
Indonesia AirAsia CEO Veranita Yosephine expressed excitement about returning to the Northern Territory, citing strong demand for Bali services and the route’s strategic importance.
“From Darwin, passengers can seamlessly connect via Bali to destinations including Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Hong Kong, and Komodo Island, with fares starting under AUD300,” Yosephine explained.
“This route will also introduce millions of Asian visitors to the Northern Territory’s remarkable offerings, from Kakadu National Park to Arnhem Land, where outback meets tropics. The competitive pricing structure aims to stimulate tourism growth in both directions.”
Strengthened Southeast Asian Connections
Airport Development Group Executive General Manager Sandra de Kock emphasized the significance of AirAsia’s return, noting Bali’s enduring popularity among Darwin residents.
“This partnership extends beyond air travel, creating stronger connections with Southeast Asia and encouraging cultural and business exchanges between the Northern Territory and our northern neighbors. The timing aligns perfectly with increasing regional travel demand and will support local tourism recovery efforts.”
Indonesian Consul Bagus Hendraning Kobarsih highlighted the route’s strategic importance for strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and Australia.
“These flights will boost two-way tourism and create new business opportunities between Indonesia and the Northern Territory, supporting Indonesia’s tourism goals and enhancing trade and investment flows.”
“The direct connection facilitates deeper cultural understanding and strengthens historic ties between our regions.”
Northern Territory Minister for Trade, Business, and Asian Relations Hon Robyn Cahill, OAM praised AirAsia’s return, connecting it to the government’s renewed focus on Asian engagement through the Office of Asian Relations.
The reinstatement of direct flights aligns with broader economic development strategies and supports the Territory’s vision for enhanced regional integration.
Tourism Minister Hon Marie-Clare Boothby welcomed the development as a significant boost to the Territory’s tourism industry. She emphasized the government’s commitment to working with industry partners to develop and promote unique tourism experiences. The new air link is expected to play a crucial role in attracting international visitors and supporting local tourism operators.
About AirAsia Group
The AirAsia Group continues to maintain exemplary standards in both service and safety. It recently secured its 15th consecutive Skytrax World’s Best Low-Cost Airline award for 2024.
The airline’s perfect safety rating from Airlineratings.com further reinforces passenger confidence in the carrier’s operations and commitment to excellence.
The reestablished route represents a collaborative achievement between AirAsia, Airport Development Group, and the Northern Territory Government.
Summary
This partnership promises to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth. It was also provide more travel options for both leisure and business passengers. Notably, it provides a convenient link from the Australian Top End to the popular tourism destination of Bali.
The service is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the Northern Territory. This will see increased tourism spending, business opportunities, and cultural exchange programs.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!
