From January to February 2025, Bali Airport recorded a staggering 3,643,836 passengers, reinforcing its position as one of Indonesia’s busiest travel hubs. Of these, 2,250,983 were international travelers, while 1,392,843 were domestic passengers. The airport saw a total of 22,540 flights during the first two months of the year, including 12,442 international and 10,098 domestic flights.

The General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, shared that international passenger traffic has grown by 11% compared to the same period in 2024, alongside a 7% rise in aircraft movements. However, domestic travel has taken a downturn, with a 9% decrease in passenger numbers. This trend may soon reverse, as the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holiday—known in Indonesia as Lebaran—is expected to trigger a surge in domestic travel.

Looking at the most frequented international routes, Singapore remains the top destination, with 384,654 passengers and 2,112 aircraft movements. Kuala Lumpur follows in second place, with 262,062 passengers and 1,719 aircraft movements, while Melbourne ranks third in passenger volume with 178,170 people. Despite this, Australian tourists continue to be the dominant international visitors to Bali.

Shahab confirmed that, based on immigration records, Australian passport holders made up the largest portion of foreign arrivals, with 238,080 visitors—accounting for 23% of total international arrivals. China followed in second place, with 103,528 visitors, while India ranked third with 75,936 arrivals. In total, 1,013,700 foreign travelers from 198 different countries visited Bali between January 1st and February 28th, 2025.

With a target of serving 26.4 million passengers this year, Bali Airport is preparing for additional domestic and international flights. “We are confident that with the addition of new routes, this will help stimulate passenger growth while supporting Bali’s tourism industry and economy,” Shahab stated.

Preparing for Nyepi and Eid Travel

As Bali prepares for Nyepi and Eid celebrations, travelers must be aware of significant changes in transport schedules. Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, falls on Saturday, March 29th. On this day, all movement across the island will be restricted, and the airport will shut down for 24 hours. Visitors are strongly advised to arrive at their accommodations by midday on March 28th, as most businesses, including taxi services, operate on reduced hours the day before Nyepi.

In addition, road closures will begin as early as 3 PM on March 28th in various communities across Bali to accommodate the Ogoh-Ogoh parades, a vibrant tradition where giant effigies are carried through the streets before the island falls into complete silence.

With large numbers of travelers arriving and departing around the Nyepi and Eid holiday period, tourists should prepare for longer queues at the airport, increased traffic congestion, and busier attractions. Authorities are working to manage the influx, but visitors should allow extra time for travel and remain mindful of local customs during this significant festive period.