BALINEWSID.COM, BADUNG — Air connectivity between Bali and Bandung has officially been restored through the launch of a new regular service operated by Garuda Indonesia from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport to Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung on Friday (August 14, 2026).

The inaugural flight marks the reactivation of Husein Sastranegara Airport for regular commercial flights and comes just ahead of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day celebrations.

Garuda Indonesia flight GA335 departed from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport at 9:44 a.m. Central Indonesia Time (WITA), carrying 162 passengers. The aircraft arrived in Bandung at 10:15 a.m. Western Indonesia Time (WIB), becoming the first jet aircraft to land at Husein Sastranegara Airport following the airport’s operational optimization.

The return flight, GA334, departed Bandung at 11:47 a.m. WIB and arrived at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport at 2:30 p.m. WITA, also carrying 162 passengers.

Acting General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Purna Irawan, welcomed the launch of the Bali–Bandung route, describing the inaugural flight as a significant moment for strengthening air connectivity between the two regions.

“We welcome the inaugural flight to and from Bandung. This moment is even more special as it takes place amid preparations to celebrate Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day. It is also part of our efforts to expand air connectivity and provide wider access for the public,” Purna Irawan said.

He said the Bali–Bandung route has strong potential because both regions are major destinations with significant tourism appeal and vibrant economic activities.

“We hope this connectivity will make it easier for people to travel between Bali and Bandung, while also encouraging more tourists and business players to explore the potential of both regions,” he added.

The reintroduction of Bandung services through Husein Sastranegara Airport also increases the number of domestic routes served by I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

As of mid-August 2026, the Bali airport is connected to 23 domestic routes. Overall, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport currently serves 64 domestic and international routes.

Airport management expects the Bali–Bandung service to further strengthen interregional connectivity and provide greater convenience for passengers traveling between the two destinations.

Purna Irawan also expressed his appreciation to Garuda Indonesia and all stakeholders involved in the reopening of the route.

“I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport is committed to providing the best possible service while continuing to support the development of flight networks with a strong focus on service quality, safety, security and passenger comfort,” he said.

The reopening of the Bali–Bandung air route is expected to strengthen Indonesia’s domestic air network while supporting tourism, business mobility and economic activity between Bali and West Java.