More than 55,000 seats a year will be guaranteed with the route between Darwin and Bali. Photo: Irenanna Sowinska.
The inaugural AirAsia Bali to Darwin flight has touched down at Darwin’s International Airport.
The new service is one of several new flights between Darwin and nearby Asian destinations, greatly enhancing Territorians’ ability to visit South-East Asia and better connecting the capital with destinations further afield.
The route will operate thrice weekly, providing more than 55,000 seats a year through Darwin and Bali.
“We are thrilled to welcome AirAsia back to Darwin today,” Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations Robyn Cahill said.
“The Northern Territory Government is focused on pursuing new airlines and investing in our aviation sector to bring more people into the Territory and provide more options for Territorians.
“This new route further strengthens the Northern Territory’s connection with Indonesia and will unlock new business and tourism opportunities between our two regions.”
The new route has been lauded by both Indonesian industry and the Northern Territory Government as mutually beneficial.
“Indonesia AirAsia’s arrival will boost the Northern Territory’s tourism industry and help attract more international visitors,” Indonesia AirAsia chief executive officer Veranita Yosephine said.
“We are confident this important and strategic connection will have flow-on benefits for local businesses by increasing visitation to restaurants and retail stores and increasing tourism experience bookings.”
The new route follows the announcement of a direct Kuala Lumpur-Darwin route to begin operation on 27 June. It will provide 100,000 annual seats between the Top End’s capital and the thriving city of Kuala Lumpur.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport has been recognised as a “mega-hub” by the Official Airline Guide (OAG) and has been ranked as one of the best airports for connecting flights.
