Badung, Eyewitness | Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport is set to temporarily suspend all flight and airport operations for 24 hours in observance of the Hindu Day of Silence, Nyepi (Saka New Year 1948). The closure reflects the airport’s commitment to honoring the sacred traditions of the island.
Nugroho Jati, General Manager of PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports) for I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, confirmed the suspension follows official protocols. “In accordance with Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) No. A0096 issued by AirNav Indonesia, all scheduled commercial flight activities will be halted from Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 06:00 WITA until Friday, March 20, 2026, at 06:00 WITA,” he stated. During this window, no regular flights will depart from or land at the airport.
Coordination and Emergency Readiness
The operational pause has been meticulously coordinated with key stakeholders, including airlines, AirNav Indonesia, the Regional IV Airport Authority, and relevant agencies. Airlines have already begun informing passengers of necessary schedule adjustments.
While routine operations will cease to allow the Hindu community to observe the Catur Brata Penyepian (Four Abstentions of Nyepi) with solemnity, the airport remains prepared for contingencies. Essential personnel will be on standby to handle emergency operations, such as medical evacuations or specialized flights, provided they have the required authorization from the authorities.
Impact on Flight Schedules
Data shows that 440 scheduled commercial flights will be affected by the closure, consisting of 231 domestic and 209 international routes. Additionally, 19 aircraft are expected to perform Remain Over Night (RON) stays at the terminal during the suspension.
Final Flights Before Closure (March 18–19):
- Domestic: Departure at 23:10 WITA (Wed); Arrival at 23:05 WITA (Wed).
- International: Departure at 01:30 WITA (Thu); Arrival at 00:30 WITA (Thu).
First Flights After Reopening (March 20):
- Domestic: Departure at 07:00 WITA; Arrival at 08:20 WITA.
- International: Departure at 08:15 WITA; Arrival at 07:05 WITA.
Official Advisory
“We urge prospective passengers planning to travel around these dates to coordinate closely with their respective airlines regarding schedules and to arrive at the airport in accordance with updated departure times,” Jati added.
“We hope this year’s Nyepi proceedings are carried out peacefully and solemnly, bringing wisdom and a renewed spirit of harmony to us all,”
Reporter: Daniel Herry
