The wait is over for Australian budget travellers: AirAsia Indonesia is launching a new flight to Cairns, opening up affordable and unique travel options between Bali and North Queensland

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The wait is over for budget-conscious Australian travellers. AirAsia Indonesia has officially launched its highly anticipated direct flights from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport to Cairns Airport, providing new affordable access for travel between Indonesia and Australia. The inaugural flight QZ 542 departed Bali late in the evening of 14 August 2024 and landed in Cairns at 6am local time on 15 August 2024. This new route is set to revolutionise travel between the two regions, providing greater access to the stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures and world-renowned tourist attractions that both Indonesia and North Queensland have to offer.

A historic moment: maiden flight greeted with enthusiasm

AirAsia Indonesia’s inaugural flight to Cairns is a major milestone in the airline’s expansion into the Australian market. The A320 was greeted with a traditional water salute upon arrival at Cairns Airport, symbolising the importance of this new route. After a brief turnaround, the aircraft was loaded with passengers bound for Bali and took off shortly after 7:00 a.m. local time.

This new service is more than just a flight route; it is a bridge between two of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in the world. Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker was excited about the new service and highlighted the benefits it will bring to the region. “AirAsia is one of the world’s most recognised airline brands and is recognised in the industry as Asia’s first low-cost airline. We are delighted to welcome AirAsia Indonesia to Cairns Airport for the very first time today,” said Barker.

Barker stressed that the new service will significantly boost the local economy by bringing more than 28,000 seats to the Cairns market in the first year alone. This influx of visitors is expected to create new opportunities for local businesses, boost tourism and strengthen ties between Australia and Indonesia.

Improving tourism and business opportunities

The introduction of this direct service between Bali and Cairns is expected to have a significant impact on tourism and the economy. Already a popular destination for Australians, Bali is expected to attract even more visitors thanks to AirAsia Indonesia’s affordable and convenient flights. On the other hand, Cairns and the surrounding Tropical North Queensland region will welcome an influx of international tourists looking to explore the island’s unique attractions, such as the Great Barrier Reef and ancient rainforests.

Veranita Yosephine, CEO of AirAsia Indonesia, stressed the importance of this new route in promoting tourism between the two regions. “We see a lot of demand, not only for this new direct connection. Everyone loves Bali, but at the same time we see many opportunities to bring our international guests closer to the incredible tourism highlights in Far North Queensland, such as visiting the Great Barrier Reef – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and the amazing, world-famous rainforests,” said Yosephine.

Yosephine also noted that Indonesia and Asia in general continue to be popular holiday destinations for Australians. The new route offers Australian travellers an affordable and unique way to experience the diverse cultures, landscapes and attractions of Indonesia and other Asian countries.

The economic and cultural impact of the new route

The launch of AirAsia Indonesia’s flights between Bali and Cairns is expected to have a far-reaching impact on both regions. For North Queensland, the improved connectivity with Asia is likely to boost not only tourism but also business opportunities. The seamless and affordable connections to Cairns from major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and domestic destinations in Indonesia will attract visitors and investors alike, and promote economic growth and cultural exchange.

Richard Barker expressed confidence that the new service will be well received by travellers in both regions. “Bali is a very popular destination with locals too and we know that this new service will be well received by holidaymakers across Tropical North Queensland,” he said.

The opening of this route is a testament to the growing demand for affordable travel options between Australia and Indonesia. It also highlights the importance of connectivity in promoting cultural understanding and economic cooperation between the nations.

Unusual hiking areas in Indonesia: Explore the untouched beauty

Indonesia is known for its diverse landscape, from pristine beaches to dense rainforests to towering volcanoes. While popular destinations like Bali and Lombok are known for their hiking trails, the country also offers a wealth of unusual hiking locations that are perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore the path less traveled.

1. Mount Rinjani, Lombok

While Mount Rinjani is a well-known tourist destination, the surrounding areas offer lesser-known hiking trails that are equally stunning. One of these trails is the Sembalun route, which takes hikers through traditional villages, lush forests, and to stunning viewpoints that are less crowded than the main trail to the summit.

2. Mount Kerinci, Sumatra

Mount Kerinci, the highest volcano in Indonesia, is located in the Kerinci Seblat National Park on Sumatra. This unusual hiking spot offers a challenging hike through dense jungle, volcanic terrain and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the summit is not for the faint-hearted, but the reward is unparalleled views of Sumatra’s natural beauty.

3. Mount Ijen, East Java

Mount Ijen is famous for its blue flames and sulphur mining, but the surrounding area offers lesser-known hiking trails that pass through coffee plantations, traditional villages and scenic viewpoints. The hike to the crater itself is a unique experience and offers the chance to see the stunning blue flames up close.

4. Wae Rebo, Flores

Wae Rebo is a traditional village in the mountains of Flores. The trek to Wae Rebo is a journey through time as travelers walk through lush forests and ancient trails to reach this remote village. The trek is relatively short, but the cultural experience of staying in a traditional Manggaraian house is unforgettable.

5. Batur volcano, Bali

Mount Batur is a popular hiking destination in Bali, but there are also unusual hiking trails in the area that offer a different perspective. The Caldera Batur hike, for example, takes hikers along the rim of the Batur caldera, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape without the crowds.

Conclusion: A new era of travel between Australia and Indonesia

The launch of AirAsia Indonesia’s direct flights between Bali and Cairns marks the beginning of a new era of travel between Australia and Indonesia. The affordable and convenient flights are expected to attract a wide range of travellers, from budget-conscious holidaymakers to business people looking for new opportunities. The service will not only boost tourism in both regions, but also foster stronger cultural and economic ties between the two countries.

While travelers from Australia flock to Bali for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and vibrant nightlife, Indonesian visitors have the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of tropical north Queensland. The new route opens up a world of possibilities for both regions, offering travelers the chance to experience the best that Indonesia and Australia have to offer.