AirAsia Indonesia has taken to the skies with a brand new route, connecting the vibrant destinations of Bali (Denpasar) and Cairns, Australia. The inaugural flight touched down at Cairns Airport on Thursday, August 15, 2024, marking a significant milestone for the Tropical North Queensland region. This new route, operating three times a week, will add over 28,000 seats to the Cairns market in its first year alone.
The arrival of AirAsia Indonesia in Cairns signifies a major boost for tourism in the region. Cairns Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker emphasized the significance of the new route, stating, “AirAsia is one of the world’s most recognisable airline brands and is renowned in the industry as Asia’s first low cost, low fare carrier.” This new service will not only attract tourists from Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and other parts of Indonesia but also offer seamless and affordable connections for travelers from across Asia.
The new route is expected to be a boon for businesses in Tropical North Queensland, providing greater access to international markets. “Providing seamless, affordable connections to Cairns from Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and domestic Indonesia will bolster visitation and business opportunities from these major, populous markets,” said Barker. The region’s local exporters will also benefit, with new avenues for delivering goods such as fish, crustaceans, fruits, and vegetables to South-East Asian markets.
The launch of this new service comes at an opportune time for both destinations. Bali, a popular destination for Australians, continues to be a favorite for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and affordable experiences. Cairns, renowned for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, World Heritage rainforests, and diverse natural beauty, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
To celebrate the launch of this new route, AirAsia Indonesia is offering special introductory fares. Veranita Yosephine, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia Indonesia, highlighted the potential for both leisure and business travel, stating, “We see great demand, not only for this new direct route. Everyone loves Bali, but at the same time, we see many opportunities to promote the incredible tourism highlights in the far north of Queensland to our international guests.”
The Queensland Government’s $200 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund (AAIF) has played a vital role in making this new route possible. Tourism Minister Michael Healy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Having a new direct route into Cairns from Denpasar opens up the Far North to more tourists and international students from across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.”
The new route has received positive support from Indonesian officials. Vedi Kurnia Buana, Indonesian Consul General in Sydney, stated, “We are excited to see AirAsia Indonesia enhancing the connection between Bali and Cairns, two beloved destinations for Australians.” He emphasized the strong bond between Indonesia and Australia, particularly as both countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
The launch of this new route by AirAsia Indonesia is expected to significantly contribute to tourism growth in both regions, fostering cultural exchange and promoting economic ties between Indonesia and Australia. With its affordable fares and convenient connections, AirAsia Indonesia is poised to make travel between Bali and Cairns more accessible than ever before.
