AirAsia Indonesia, the Indonesian arm of the renowned low-cost carrier AirAsia, is setting its sights on expanding its international network by introducing new flight routes to Indian cities. This strategic move comes as part of the airline’s broader ambition to tap into the burgeoning travel demand between India and Indonesia, two nations with deepening economic and cultural ties. With India emerging as one of Indonesia’s fastest-growing inbound tourism markets, the airline aims to capitalize on the increasing number of Indian travelers flocking to popular Indonesian destinations such as Bali, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta. This expansion is poised to enhance air connectivity, boost tourism, and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
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The decision to explore new routes to India aligns with recent developments in aviation agreements between India and Indonesia. In late 2024, the two nations revised their bilateral air service agreement, significantly increasing the seat capacity for airlines operating between them. The updated agreement now allows for up to 9,000 one-way seats per week for carriers from each side, roughly equivalent to 50 narrow-body aircraft flights. This expanded capacity provides AirAsia Indonesia with the operational flexibility to launch direct flights to high-demand Indian cities, catering to both leisure and business travelers. Additionally, Indonesia’s visa-free entry policy for Indian nationals, allowing stays of up to 30 days, further sweetens the deal, making travel more accessible and appealing.
While AirAsia Indonesia has not yet officially confirmed the exact routes, industry speculation points to several Indian cities as likely candidates. Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad stand out due to their proximity to Indonesia and growing passenger traffic. Bengaluru, a major technology hub, could serve as a gateway for business travelers heading to Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital and economic center. Chennai, with its rich cultural heritage and strong trade links, might connect seamlessly with Jakarta or even Bali, a perennial favorite among Indian tourists. Hyderabad, another rapidly developing metropolis, could also see direct flights to Bali, catering to the rising number of Indian visitors seeking the island’s beaches and resorts. On the Indonesian side, the airline is expected to leverage its primary hubs—Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport—to anchor these new services. This isn’t the first time AirAsia Indonesia has considered flights to India. In April 2024, the airline reportedly evaluated routes such as Jakarta to Chennai and Bali to Kolkata, though those plans did not come to fruition. The renewed push in 2025 reflects a more determined effort, driven by favorable market conditions and the airline’s operational readiness. AirAsia Indonesia operates a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, well-suited for short- to medium-haul routes, which aligns with the distances between India and Indonesia. The airline’s low-cost model, emphasizing affordability and efficiency, positions it to compete effectively in the Indian market, where price sensitivity remains a key factor for travelers.
The potential launch of these flights promises significant benefits for both countries. For Indonesia, it means greater tourism revenue, particularly in Bali, where Indian visitor numbers have surged in recent years. For India, improved connectivity could foster stronger trade ties and cultural exchanges with Indonesia, a key player in Southeast Asia. As AirAsia Indonesia gears up for this expansion, the airline is likely conducting detailed market assessments to finalize its route network, ensuring it meets the needs of travelers while maximizing profitability. If successful, this move could mark a new chapter in India-Indonesia air travel, bridging two vibrant nations with affordable and convenient flight options.