5 Million Tourists Expected to Fly Across Indonesia This Christmas: Key Information for Bali Visitors
As the festive season approaches, Indonesia is gearing up for a significant surge in travel activity, with an estimated 5 million passengers set to fly across the nation during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Bali, one of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations, is preparing to manage the influx and ensure a smooth experience for both domestic and international travelers.
The Nataru Holiday Rush
In Indonesia, the Christmas and New Year period is widely celebrated and known as "Nataru," an abbreviation derived from the Indonesian words "Natal" (Christmas) and "Tahun Baru" (New Year). This season marks one of the busiest domestic travel times as families reunite and tourists flood popular destinations, particularly Bali.
To maintain safety and order, the Indonesian government activates numerous "Nataru Posts" or command centers throughout the country. These are strategically positioned at airports, harbors, bus terminals, and along major transportation routes to monitor security and traffic flow during this busy period.
Flight and Passenger Forecast
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation under the Ministry of Transportation, over 5 million air travelers are expected over the two-week festive period, combining domestic and international flights. Of these, approximately 3.9 million passengers will travel domestically, while international travelers are projected to total just over 1.15 million.
Bali is anticipated to be a central hub during the season. I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali is expected to handle around 1.5 million passengers, with an average of more than 440 flights per day. Airlines have requested an additional 150 flight slots to accommodate this surge.
The busiest travel days for arrivals and departures are predicted to be December 19, 2025, and January 4, 2026, respectively, with nearly 80,000 passengers expected each day.
Traffic and Airport Management Efforts
Last year’s holiday season in Bali experienced severe traffic congestion, particularly around the airport, which led to some travelers abandoning taxis and rushing on foot to catch flights. To avoid a repeat of this situation, airport officials and local authorities have coordinated extensively.
Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, confirmed close collaboration among transportation authorities, airport police, the Indonesian Air Force, and local communities to manage vehicle flows efficiently to and from the airport. Over 2,000 personnel will be deployed to streamline passenger movement and minimize delays.
Travelers are strongly advised to allow extra time when traveling to the airport, especially on peak traffic days, to avoid missing flights due to congestion.
Important Tips for Bali Tourists During Nataru
- Plan Ahead: Expect heavy travel volumes and potential delays, particularly around December 19 and January 4.
- Arrive Early: With increased traffic and longer processing times, arriving several hours before your flight is recommended.
- Stay Informed: Monitor announcements from airlines and airport authorities for any changes or updates.
- Use Official Transport: Utilize coordinated transportation services and avoid unregulated taxis to ensure safety and efficiency.
Looking Ahead
Although the anticipated travel volume represents a slight increase compared to previous years, officials remain optimistic about passenger mobility. The government and airport authorities are committed to providing seamless travel experiences through enhanced coordination and proactive traffic management.
As the Christmas and New Year festivities approach, Bali is preparing to welcome millions of visitors, ensuring that both locals and tourists enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season.
Travelers planning a holiday in Bali during the Nataru period are encouraged to stay updated on airport guidelines and traffic advisories to make their journeys as smooth as possible.
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