Another big promise has resurfaced in Bali: the long-awaited North Bali Airport. This project has been discussed for years, yet the final green light never truly happened.
So the question remains: is this time the real deal?
Let’s break down what’s actually happening, what’s confirmed, what isn’t, and what this means for Bali’s future, especially for the north.
Key Takeaways
- The government is moving the North Bali Airport project forward. It’s now included in the national development plan (RPJMN) and is being positioned as a long-term priority.
- Key studies have been completed, including feasibility and environmental assessments—an essential step for any major development.
- The investment structure is still being finalized, and no construction date has been announced yet.
Indonesia Government Officially Confirmed the North Bali International Airport Development
The Indonesian government has publicly confirmed that the second Bali airport (known as North Bali International Airport) project is being revived, and with much more serious intent. So this time, the news isn’t just rumors floating around Bali.
According to Antara News, the country’s official state news agency, President Prabowo Subianto has approved the development of a second airport in Bali. Even more importantly, the project is set to be included in Indonesia’s 2025–2029 National Mid-Term Development Plan (RPJMN).
This is big because RPJMN projects get:
- Priority support
- Funding pathways, and
- Fast-tracked permits
That alone puts the airport in a far stronger position than in previous years.
Brief Overview About North Bali International Airport
- Location: Planned on the coast of Kubutambahan, Buleleng, covering ±2,800 hectares (mostly through offshore reclamation).
- Design: A 3–3.6 km runway built above the sea to avoid temples and traditional villages; an aerotropolis zone will include housing, public facilities, and a logistics hub.
- Current Status: Feasibility study and environmental assessments completed; location permit (IPL) still under review; groundbreaking targeted for 2025; first runway projected for 2027.
- Accessibility: Supported by planned new toll roads, widened provincial roads, and a proposed LRT/rail connection to Ubud, Sanur, and South Bali.
- Operational Role: Designed to complement Ngurah Rai—focusing on low-cost carriers (LCC) and regional routes, while Ngurah Rai serves long-haul and premium airlines.
- Economic Impact: Estimated to create ±220,000 jobs, boost property values, and strengthen local MSMEs.
Read More: New Bali Construction Ban Explained (And Why It’s Not All Bad)
When Will Construction for the North Bali Airport Actually Begin?
While the developer promoting the project has made strong claims, Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation and the Bali Provincial Government have clarified that no official location permit (IPL) has been issued yet.
They’ve stated that the project is still under administrative evaluation, and any claims of immediate groundbreaking are premature.
Read More: Building a Villa in Bali? Here’s the Permits You Need
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Bali’s Planned Infrastructure Projects
For more details, here is an illustration we found showing Bali’s planned future infrastructure.
You can see several proposed projects, including the North Bali Airport, the LRT network, the Ubud–Kubutambahan railway, and the Kubutambahan–Mengwi and Gilimanuk–Mengwi toll roads.
Why the Airport Is Planned for North Bali?
The decision to place the new airport in North Bali is based on several practical and strategic considerations identified by government agencies and independent studies:
Congestion and Overcapacity in South Bali
Ngurah Rai Airport is rapidly approaching its maximum capacity, and the southern region continues to attract the majority of Bali’s tourism and development. A second airport would help distribute visitor flow more evenly across the island.
More Balanced Regional Development
Areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Sanur, and Uluwatu have seen rapid growth, while the northern region has developed much more slowly. The government aims to encourage economic expansion in Buleleng and the surrounding areas.
Read More: Underrated Bali Location for High-Yield Property Investments (it’s not Canggu)
Suitable Land and Coastal Conditions
Various planning and development groups highlight that the Buleleng region offers the land characteristics, coastal space, and logistical feasibility required for a large-scale aviation project.
FAQ
Most proposals position it as a full international airport, though the final status depends on investors and government approvals. It may still open in phases—domestic first, then international as infrastructure develops.
It could boost jobs, infrastructure, and tourism activity, but may also raise concerns about land, culture, and the environment. These issues would be reviewed during the permit process.
It can be profitable but carries risk. Prices often rise around major proposed projects, but timelines and permits are uncertain. Prioritize areas with proven accessibility and demand, not just speculative land banking.
Yes. North Bali is an underrated gem. It’s peaceful, full of things to see, and close to great attractions without the crowds
Conclusion
The North Bali Airport project is now more serious than ever. It has presidential support, is included in Indonesia’s national development plan, and major studies are already completed.
If it moves forward, North Bali will see major changes—especially in tourism and real estate. More visitors will mean higher demand for villas, hotels, resorts, cafés, and other hospitality businesses.
For investors, this creates early opportunities with strong long-term upside. That’s why now is a great time to explore North Bali as an investment option.
If you want to understand North Bali’s ROI and long-term prospects, Ilot Property Bali offers a free consultation. Our team can review your goals and recommend smart options.
Book your free consultation here, and get personalized guidance on investing in Bali property — no strings attached.
