Travelers looking to journey between Bali and East Java are about to experience a significant upgrade in convenience. Officials in both regions are actively working to draw more visitors to discover the rich diversity of their landscapes and communities. A new seaplane service is poised to streamline this exploration, making it far more straightforward for adventurers.
This upcoming seaplane route is not merely about simplifying transit between Bali Province and East Java Province; it promises a noticeably more picturesque, faster, and potentially more economical option in the broader scheme of things. Traditionally, for those eager to traverse from Bali to East Java, the most common path involves taking a ferry between Gilimanuk and Banyuwangi. This ferry journey typically follows a ride in a private car or taxi from central Bali, extending all the way to the western tip of the island. Public transportation choices for reaching the western and northwestern parts of Bali from its central areas are quite limited.
Currently, the most practical methods for tourists to reach these specific areas of the island involve either driving themselves or employing a local driver. Self-driving presents a good strategy for individuals who plan on returning to the central southern regions. However, for those whose itinerary includes moving onward to East Java, operating a rental scooter across two distinct provinces is generally not permitted, making self-driving a less viable option for onward travel.
The way tourists move between Bali and East Java is on the cusp of a dramatic transformation. Aman Air is set to introduce a seaplane connection between Bali and Banyuwangi in the near future. This is a genuine seaplane operation, meaning the aircraft will both take off from and land on water. In a discussion with journalists regarding this new venture, Michael Nicholas, President Director of Aman Air, elaborated, “Banyuwangi offers a comprehensive experience. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, it boasts excellent facilities and hosts events throughout the year. This combination truly serves as an attraction.”
Nicholas’s perspective was echoed by Daniel Dwi Ananta, Deputy Director of Aman Air, who provided further details about the forthcoming flight service. He confirmed that the route will utilize a Twin Otter aircraft, which has the capacity to comfortably carry between 16 and 18 passengers.
Notably, this service will not originate from Gilimanuk. This departure point adjustment will significantly reduce both travel time and expenses for tourists planning to explore East Java from Bali. Instead, flights will commence from Benoa Harbour in Bali and conclude with a landing in Pang Pang Bay, located in Banyuwangi, East Java.
Ananta informed reporters, “Our goal is to commence operations early next year, specifically during the first or second quarter of 2026. We are confident that this flight will significantly bolster tourism in Banyuwangi.” He further indicated that this service represents an excellent opportunity for growth and cooperation among tourism enterprises across both Bali and East Java.
Ananta also explained, “We intend to curate several tour packages for tourists. For instance, we might create a one-day excursion. Tourists would depart from Benoa in the morning, experience a 25-minute flight to Pang Pang Bay, then explore the attractions of Banyuwangi, and return to Benoa in the afternoon.”
The Regent of Banyuwangi, Ipuk Fiestiandani, conveyed his excitement about the new initiative. He remarked to reporters, “This will simplify travel for tourists visiting Banyuwangi and offer them a truly distinctive experience.”
This upcoming service marks one of Aman Air’s initial forays into commercial passenger flights. Presently, the airline primarily concentrates on transporting cargo to remote regions throughout Indonesia. The airline states, “We provide expert and dependable air cargo services, including the delivery of bulk fuel to distant locations across Indonesia.” The airline is well-established within its specialized sector, adding, “From the mountainous areas of Papua to the isolated border communities in North Kalimantan, for over five years, we have been offering customers throughout Indonesia safe, reliable, and cost-effective air charter services, encompassing bulk fuel delivery.”
Tourists visiting Bali in the coming months and years will notice an increased emphasis on promoting both the less-frequented areas within Bali Province and emerging tourism destinations across the entire nation. The Wonderful Indonesia campaign and the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism are actively working to position Bali as a primary launching point for holidays and incredible travel experiences throughout the archipelago.
