Bali, often hailed as the “Island of the Gods,” captivates visitors with its enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. At the heart of Bali’s tourism industry lies its international airports, serving as gateways to paradise for millions of travelers each year.
As Bali’s aviation landscape evolves, let’s delve into the official names and histories of the island’s primary airports, shedding light on their significance and contributions to Bali’s thriving tourism sector.
1. I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
Official Name: Bandar Udara Internasional I Gusti Ngurah Rai (Indonesian)
Location: Tuban, Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali
Distance from Denpasar: 13 kilometers south
History:
Established in 1931 as Denpasar Airport to serve domestic flights within Indonesia, the airport was renamed “I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport” in 1968, honoring the Balinese independence hero I Gusti Ngurah Rai, who led a rebellion against Dutch colonial rule. Over the decades, it underwent substantial expansions in the 1980s and 2000s to accommodate the booming tourism industry, evolving into the second busiest airport in Indonesia. Positioned as a vital gateway to Bali, it facilitates international travel and plays a crucial role in bolstering the island’s economic growth. Throughout its illustrious history, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport remains a symbol of Bali’s resilience and progress, embodying the island’s enduring spirit.
Website: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport
Also See: Traveling to Bali: Is Travel Insurance a Necessity?
2. Bandar Udara Internasional Bali Utara (BUI)
Official Name: Bandar Udara Internasional Bali Utara (Indonesian)
Location: Kubutambahan, Buleleng Regency, Bali
Distance from Denpasar: 60 kilometers north
History:
Currently under construction, Bandar Udara Internasional Bali Utara (BUI) is poised to emerge as a transformative addition to Bali’s aviation infrastructure, envisioned to alleviate congestion at Ngurah Rai Airport and stimulate tourism in North Bali, representing a strategic investment in the region’s economic development. Despite its promising prospects, the project has encountered criticism regarding its potential environmental impact, particularly concerning its construction on coastal wetland areas. While Bandar Udara Internasional Bali Utara (BUI) holds promise as a future international airport, it is essential to note that it is currently under construction and not operational. As such, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) remains the sole operational international airport in Bali, serving as the primary conduit for travelers seeking to experience the island’s wonders.
Website: No official website available yet.
*Important Note: While BUI is planned to become an international airport, it is currently under construction and not operational. I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) remains the only operational international airport in Bali.
Check Out: From Australia to Bali: Choosing the Best Airline
The unveiling of Bali’s international airports, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) and the forthcoming Bandar Udara Internasional Bali Utara (BUI), epitomizes the island’s aviation evolution. DPS stands as the operational hub, while BUI’s development signals future growth.
Together, they represent Bali’s allure for travelers, promising connectivity and adventure. Whether arriving at DPS or anticipating BUI’s opening, visitors can expect seamless journeys infused with Bali’s charm and spirit of exploration.
