North Bali’s Long-Awaited Gateway: Is the New Airport Finally Taking Flight?

For more than a decade, the idea of building an international airport in North Bali has drifted between promise and uncertainty. Today, that long-awaited vision seems closer to becoming real. With renewed government backing and fresh design proposals, the North Bali Airport is once again sparking hope for a more balanced future across the island.

A Vision Beyond the South

For years, Bali’s southern coast has carried the island’s tourism boom. From Seminyak to Nusa Dua, growth has been rapid, while the northern region has remained largely untouched. The proposed North Bali Airport aims to shift that dynamic, opening new access to areas like Buleleng and Singaraja and spreading economic opportunities more evenly across the island.

Government officials say the project is part of a broader strategy to relieve congestion in the south while uplifting communities in the north. With better connectivity, this region could emerge as a new hub for boutique resorts, wellness tourism, and eco-lodges surrounded by untouched nature and highland serenity.

Designing a Cultural Landmark

Developed by PT BIBU Panji Sakti and Alien Design Consultant, the latest concept draws inspiration from Balinese mythology, particularly the legend of Bedawang Nala, the mythical turtle believed to support the earth. The envisioned “Artport” blends modern aviation facilities with traditional art and symbolism, featuring two runways and the capacity to serve up to 30 million passengers annually. Plans also include an “aerotropolis” that integrates hospitality, retail, and green spaces into one economic ecosystem.

Balancing Progress and Preservation

Optimism surrounds the project, but challenges remain. The proposed location near Sumberklampok sits close to the West Bali National Park, raising environmental concerns. The Ministry of Transportation insists that all legal, land, and environmental requirements must be completed before construction begins.

According to Lukman F. Laisa, Director General of Air Transportation, the ministry continues to support the project, provided that all procedures are fulfilled in accordance with regulations. He reiterated that the determination of location, land ownership, and environmental permits must align with government standards before development can move forward, ensuring the project’s legitimacy and sustainability.

Local communities, while welcoming growth, continue to urge responsible development that honors nature and culture. In July 2025, Coordinating Minister Muhaimin Iskandar also expressed his support, noting that the airport’s acceleration could strengthen community empowerment, small businesses, and the creative economy in northern Bali. He emphasized that Bali needs two modern entry points to unlock its full potential and that legal certainty remains essential before construction begins.

Between Hope and Horizon

If realized, the North Bali Airport could redefine how travelers experience the island, offering new gateways to tranquility and authentic culture. Whether its first flight takes off in 2028 or later, the project represents more than infrastructure. It is a vision of balance between growth and grace, inviting a new era for Bali’s northern horizon.

Related

Subscribe to our newsletter

Enjoy exclusive special deals available only to our subscribers.