Airline and NT government officials celebrate the announcement of the service. Photo: AirAsia
AirAsia will be returning to the Northern Territory this year with the resumption of Darwin-Bali services in March.
The airline is to operate three-weekly direct flights from March 22 and is expected to deliver over 1000 visitors weekly, the NT government says.
Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill, said it was a huge win for the Territory.
“We are delighted that Indonesia AirAsia will return to Darwin in 2025 with a direct service between Darwin and Denpasar,” she said.
“The re-establishment by our government of a dedicated portfolio of Asian relations is a clear demonstration of the importance of our northern neighbours to growing the Territory’s economy.”
Cahill said the government will work on attracting more air services.
Tourism Minister Marie Clare Boothby said the new route would improve access, choice, airfare competition and liveability.
“This is great news for the Territory’s tourism industry; we welcome Indonesia AirAsia back to the Territory,” she said.
Indonesia AirAsia CEO Veranita Yosephine said the airline was thrilled to return to the Territory.
“Bali is now our largest hub in terms of flight capacity, driven by strong demand. These direct flights will cater to the enduring popularity of Bali as a destination for Australians and offer great low fare connections to over 130 destinations across the AirAsia Group network,” said Veranita.
Sandra De Kock, Executive General Manager at Airport Development Group, says that AirAsia’s return to Darwin shows strong local demand for a service to Bali.
“Territorians have been calling for more options to fly to Bali, and we’re excited to deliver with the return of AirAsia,” he said.
“Bali has long been the number one holiday destination for Darwin residents …”
While the route is non-stop, it will also serve as an international hub for onward destinations across the AirAsia Group’s network.
