BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport is preparing for a surge in passenger traffic during the 2026 Lunar New Year long holiday period, with significant increases projected between February 13 and 19.
Airport operator PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia, under the InJourney Airports brand, estimates that 438,000 passengers will pass through the airport during the seven-day period. The total consists of 268,000 international passengers and 170,000 domestic passengers.
Aircraft movements are forecast to reach 2,804, including 1,521 international flights and 1,283 domestic flights.
Acting General Manager of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Purna Irawan, said airport management has prepared mitigation measures to handle the increase in passenger and aircraft traffic.
“During this Lunar New Year long holiday period, we predict passenger traffic will increase by approximately 1.5 percent compared to regular days. We are taking anticipatory steps, particularly to prevent congestion in the arrival terminal area and along airport access roads that could reduce the level of service,” Purna said on Saturday (February 14).
The peak of passenger movement is expected on Sunday, February 15, with an estimated 76,000 passengers, comprising 37,000 arrivals and 39,000 departures. Meanwhile, the return flow is projected to reach its highest level on Thursday, February 19, with around 64,000 passengers.
Purna noted that this year’s Lunar New Year holiday coincides closely with the start of Ramadan, influencing domestic travel patterns.
“The Lunar New Year long holiday this year is quite unique because it is close to the beginning of Ramadan. We predict many domestic passengers will spend their holiday in Bali before entering the Ramadan period,” he added.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to avoid queues and ensure smooth flight processes. Airport authorities have strengthened operational coordination with airlines, aviation regulators, and other stakeholders to maintain service efficiency.
“Our main focus is on managing vehicle flow, optimizing terminal facilities, and increasing personnel readiness on the ground to ensure passenger comfort during the long holiday period,” Purna concluded.
The projected traffic increase is expected to impact arrival times, terminal crowd levels, and ground transportation flow, particularly on peak travel days.