Ambitious Plans for North Bali: New Airport to Transform Island’s Landscape

A Shift in Bali’s Tourism Dynamics

For decades, the northern coast of Bali has maintained a tranquil contrast to the bustling southern region, known for its fervent nightlife and vibrant restaurants. While southern hotspots like Kuta and Canggu attract millions of tourists eager for entertainment, the north beckons visitors with pristine beaches, lush forests, and villages steeped in tradition. However, this serene landscape is on the verge of significant transformation as Indonesia embarks on an ambitious plan to construct a new international airport in North Bali’s Buleleng Regency.

The Vision for the New Airport

This proposed airport, which is set to reclaim 900 hectares from the Bali Sea to create an artificial island shaped like a giant turtle, promises to feature cutting-edge facilities, including two runways—one capable of accommodating the Airbus A380, the largest commercial aircraft in the world. Additionally, the airport will have a jetty designed for seaplane operations, marking a new era for the region.

In conjunction with the airport, a modern metropolis is planned to rise in Buleleng, complete with shopping malls, convention halls, and hotels. This burgeoning development is projected to rival the size of Singaraja, the largest city in North Bali. Plans also include transforming Buleleng into a film production hub, aptly nicknamed “Baliwood,” to diversify its economic offerings.

Infrastructure Development: Toll Roads and Rail Networks

Complementing the airport initiative, a new 60-kilometer toll road is set to be constructed, connecting the quiet towns of Kubutambahan and Mengwi, which lies on the outskirts of Bali’s capital, Denpasar. This project will facilitate easier access to the northern region and aims to enhance tourism flow. Additionally, a 100-kilometer rail line will link Kubutambahan with Ngurah Rai Airport, Bali’s existing international gateway, further connectting various parts of the island.

The government also plans to upgrade the ports along Bali’s northern coastline, transforming them from facilities accommodating only traditional fishing boats to modern ports capable of welcoming yachts, speedboats, and cruise ships.

Government Support and Economic Implications

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong support for these developments. Speaking to the media on November 3, he declared his commitment to constructing the North Bali International Airport, envisioning it as a cornerstone for Bali’s future economic prosperity, comparing the island’s potential to that of Singapore and Hong Kong.

Many locals in Buleleng welcome this change. With only about 600,000 of the 16.3 million domestic and international tourists visiting Bali last year venturing to their region, residents face high unemployment and poverty rates. Made Sudirsa, the chief of Bulian village, voiced hope that these projects would invigorate the local economy and provide jobs, as many young villagers currently seek employment opportunities in southern Bali or abroad.

Mixed Reactions From Local Residents

However, not everyone shares this enthusiasm. Some residents are concerned about the potential displacement of communities and environmental degradation associated with large-scale developments. Ketut Artawan, a Kubutambahan local, highlighted the challenges faced in South Bali, where rapid development has resulted in increased crime rates, loss of natural landscapes, and social issues.

Opinions are divided even among residents from southern Bali. Anak Agung Ngurah Sukarsana, a Balinese nobleman, emphasized the importance of supporting the northern regions, stating that the south can benefit from a more balanced distribution of tourism and investments. Conversely, tour agency owner Putu Yoga warned that if North Bali becomes too commercialized, it may lose its unique charm and deter tourists seeking authentic experiences.

Economic Viability Concerns

Despite the ambitious plans, experts remain skeptical about the feasibility and profitability of the new airport. Concerns arise regarding the potential for it to become an underutilized facility, similar to others in Indonesia, such as Kertajati in West Java, which operates with limited flights. The overarching issue of funding for the infrastructure projects also looms large, especially following recent budget cuts by the Indonesian government that affect various construction initiatives.

The Need for Sustainable Development

The existing Ngurah Rai Airport in the south has seen substantial growth over the years but struggles with capacity constraints as it reached near-full capacity of 24 million passengers in 2024. Officials argue that another airport in North Bali could alleviate pressure on the southern airport and enable more equitable development across the island.

Chappy Hakim, a retired air force general and aviation analyst, noted that the idea for a north airport has existed for years but has often been hindered by financial challenges. Recent indications suggest a shift, with foreign investments coming into play. A significant partnership has emerged, as BIBU Panji Sakti signed an agreement with China’s ChangYe Construction Group, securing investments for the airport’s estimated $3 billion construction cost.

Looking Ahead

As plans for the new North Bali International Airport unfold, the implications for the region will be profound. While the proposed developments promise to enhance accessibility and boost local economies, they also raise critical discussions about preserving the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The balance between progress and sustainability will be a pressing issue as Bali’s landscape transforms in the coming years.