Contrary to speculation that Bali has become quiet, Governor I Wayan Koster emphasized that tourism remains vibrant. Statistics reveal a surge in international arrivals, offsetting the decrease in domestic flights.
Governor Koster explained that overall tourist arrivals to Bali in 2025 were relatively stable compared to the previous year. The decline in domestic tourists does not reflect Bali’s overall tourism condition, as the island’s tourism sector is primarily supported by international visitors.
“If people say Bali is quiet, the data says otherwise. It is actually crowded. What matters most for Bali is international tourists because they directly impact spending, occupancy rates, and the length of stay,” Wayan Koster emphasized on January 1, 2026.
He noted that the number of international tourists in 2025 increased by approximately 700,000 compared to 2024. This growth was also supported by an increase in international airlines and flight routes to Bali. In 2025, the number of international airlines rose from 43 to 44, while international routes increased from 40 to 44.
Reduction in Domestic Flights
On the other hand, the decline in domestic tourists was attributed to a reduction in domestic flights. Several national airlines, including Garuda Indonesia and Citilink, reduced flight frequencies due to routine maintenance of part of their fleets.
“Domestic flights have indeed declined because many Garuda and Citilink aircraft are undergoing maintenance. As a result, the number of flights to Bali has decreased and planes are always full,” he explained.
This situation has limited flight options for people traveling to Bali via domestic air routes. However, Koster stressed that this condition is temporary and does not indicate a downturn in Bali’s tourism industry.
In his closing statement, Governor Koster expressed optimism about Bali’s tourism prospects. With the upward trend in international tourist arrivals, improved international connectivity, and enhanced airport services, Bali is believed to remain one of the world’s leading tourist destinations rather than a quiet one as often speculated.
Meanwhile, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has reactivated thermo scanners to anticipate the entry of passengers suspected of being infected with super flu or influenza A (H3N2) subclade K. These devices have been available since the Covid-19 pandemic and are now being reused for early detection.
General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Nugroho Jati, explained that the symptoms of super flu are similar to those of common influenza. Therefore, passengers detected with fever can be immediately separated and handled more quickly.
“I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport is a major international gateway with a large number of users. Based on the symptoms we have studied and the information we received, they are more or less similar to common flu, but detection becomes more apparent when body temperature is high,” Nugroho said, as quoted by Antara on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
He confirmed that all thermo scanners are functioning properly, with around 25 units installed. The devices are placed along the main arrival and departure routes for both international and domestic passengers.
“All units are installed, operating properly, and further information will come from the Ministry of Health regarding developments and follow-up measures,” Nugroho added.
Currently, the airport, which serves an average of 66,000 passengers per day, has not detected any passengers suspected of carrying super flu. Nevertheless, preventive measures remain in place, including temperature screening and readiness of personnel and medical facilities if needed.
According to Metrotvnews, “For now, we are coordinating with the Indonesian Quarantine Agency and the Port Health Office. The situation remains mild and precautionary, with no special protocols implemented yet,” he said.
According to data from the Ministry of Health, as of the end of December 2025, there were 62 reported cases of super flu spread across eight provinces, with the highest numbers recorded in East Java, South Kalimantan, and West Java.
Sources : RRI.co.id, Metrotvnews
Feat Image : via AntaraNews//Dewa Ketut Sudiarta Wiguna