Will Bali’s Second Airport Finally Happen?

Bali, Indonesia’s most popular tourist destination, has long been served by Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) located in the southern part of the island near Kuta. However, as tourism continues to grow and Bali seeks to expand its appeal to visitors from around the world, a second airport project has been proposed. But will it actually be built? Let’s explore what’s known about the proposed second Bali airport, where it’s planned to be located, its potential benefits, and the challenges it faces.

Where Will the Second Bali Airport Be Located?

The proposed second Bali airport, tentatively named Bali North Airport or Buleleng Airport, is planned to be constructed in the northern part of Bali, specifically in the Buleleng Regency. This area is far less developed than the bustling southern part of the island, which includes popular tourist spots like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. The site identified for the airport is located near the village of Kubutambahan, about 80 kilometers from Denpasar.

According to Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation, the Buleleng location was chosen to help alleviate congestion at Ngurah Rai International Airport and to distribute economic benefits more evenly across the island. Additionally, building an airport in the north would open up direct access to attractions such as Lovina Beach, known for its dolphin sightings, waterfalls, and quiet resorts.

Potential Benefits of the Second Bali Airport

1. Economic Growth for Northern Bali
   With tourism heavily concentrated in the southern part of Bali, northern areas like Buleleng and Amed have not experienced the same economic growth. The construction of a new airport could bring significant investment to the region, boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and enhancing infrastructure.
   Amed, a coastal village renowned for its diving spots, shipwrecks, and serene landscapes, could see increased tourism traffic with easier access through a northern airport. According to Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster, the northern airport is expected to "spread tourism benefits to underdeveloped regions," thus contributing to a more balanced economic development across the island.
2. Reduced Congestion at Ngurah Rai International Airport
   As the main entry point for millions of visitors each year, Ngurah Rai International Airport faces challenges with overcrowding, particularly during peak tourist seasons. A second airport would ease this pressure, improving the overall travel experience for visitors.
   The Indonesian Transportation Ministry has noted that by 2030, passenger arrivals at Ngurah Rai are expected to exceed its capacity, making the construction of a second airport increasingly urgent.
3. Improved Accessibility
   A northern airport would provide easier access to northern Bali’s unique attractions, making it a more viable destination for tourists who would otherwise need to undertake a lengthy road journey from the south. Destinations like Amed, with its vibrant diving and snorkeling scenes, would likely benefit from increased visitor numbers.
4. Increased Tourism Revenue
   By diversifying Bali’s tourism offerings and making more of the island accessible to international travelers, the second airport could significantly increase overall tourism revenue.

Challenges Facing the Project

Despite the apparent benefits, the project has faced a number of challenges:

• Environmental Concerns
  Environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on Bali’s natural ecosystems, particularly as the proposed site is near agricultural and coastal areas. According to the Bali Forum for the Environment (WALHI), constructing the airport could threaten the biodiversity and natural beauty of northern Bali.
• Funding and Political Will
  Developing a new airport is a massive undertaking requiring substantial investment. While there has been interest from investors, securing the necessary funding and political support remains a challenge. According to recent reports from Indonesia’s Investment Coordinating Board, foreign investors have expressed interest but remain cautious due to potential environmental and infrastructure concerns.
• Infrastructure Readiness
  Building an airport is only part of the equation. Adequate roads, transportation, and accommodation facilities are needed to support increased tourism in northern Bali.

Will It Actually Be Built?

The fate of the second Bali airport remains uncertain. While there is enthusiasm for the project from various stakeholders, including local government officials and tourism industry leaders, it has been stalled by financial and environmental concerns.

According to Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster, discussions are ongoing to push the project forward, with a focus on "ensuring that the development is environmentally friendly and benefits the local community." However, the Indonesian government has not yet made a final decision, citing the need for further feasibility studies and environmental assessments.

Conclusion

While the idea of building a second airport in Bali is promising for improving tourism access and economic growth in the north, its construction is still up in the air. The project has faced hurdles related to environmental concerns, funding, and infrastructure readiness.

Based on recent statements from officials, the government appears interested in moving forward but is proceeding cautiously. As of now, the second Bali airport has not been officially approved, but ongoing discussions suggest that it is still a possibility. Future developments will largely depend on whether stakeholders can resolve the challenges currently holding the project back.

Stay tuned for updates as Bali continues to balance development with sustainability and cultural preservation.