Flights to and from Bali Return to Normal After Mount Lewotobi Eruption

Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, confirmed the resumption of normal flight operations. “Based on operational data as of 3:00 AM on Friday (15/11), there are 399 scheduled flight movements, including arrivals and departures. No flight cancellations were recorded due to the impact of Mount Lewotobi's eruption,” he stated. 

The highest number of flight cancellations occurred on Wednesday (13/11), with a total of 115 flights canceled—32 domestic and 83 international. This number decreased to 52 cancellations on Thursday (14/11), with 11 domestic (6 departures, 5 arrivals) and 41 international flights (22 departures, 19 arrivals). 

“During these periods, the majority of cancellations involved routes to and from Australia, accounting for a total of 61 cancellations—47 on Wednesday (13/11) and 14 on Thursday (14/11),” Ahmad Syaugi explained.

By Thursday (14/11), some airlines servicing Australian routes, including Qantas, Virgin, and Jetstar, had resumed operations. Although not all routes were immediately restored, flights to and from Sydney, Darwin, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth were active. 

Passenger numbers reflected the gradual normalization of operations. On Wednesday (13/11), the airport handled 35,865 passengers, increasing to 54,320 on Thursday (14/11). Similarly, aircraft movements rose from 206 on Wednesday to 326 on Thursday.

Throughout the eruption, Ahmad Syaugi emphasized that I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport remained operational. “PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia appreciates the support and cooperation of all parties in disseminating information and providing services to passengers. Despite the natural disruption, we have maintained optimal airport operations,” he concluded.

With flight schedules back on track, Bali remains a safe and welcoming destination for international travelers. Visitors can confidently plan their trips to the Island of the Gods, enjoying its world-class hospitality, rich culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. *ris