Stallone Tjia
Aug 27, 2026
Travellers connecting between international and domestic flights at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport now have a faster and more seamless way to transfer between terminals, following the opening of a new International–Domestic Terminal Transfer Bridge on August 17, 2026.
The new facility was officially put into operation to coincide with Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day, with airport management describing it as a special gift for passengers and part of its ongoing efforts to improve the overall airport experience.
A Faster Way to Connect
The new transfer bridge is designed for passengers travelling between the international and domestic terminals, in both directions. Previously, passengers connecting from an international arrival to a domestic departure could face a lengthy transfer process, including leaving the terminal and completing additional procedures before continuing their journey.
With the new connection, eligible transfer passengers can remain within the terminal complex and move directly between the two sides of the airport without having to exit and re-enter the terminal. This is expected to make connecting flights considerably more convenient, particularly for travellers arriving in Bali before continuing to another destination in Indonesia.
The improvement is significant. Passenger transfer times, which previously averaged around 90 minutes in one direction, are projected to fall to approximately 15 minutes with the new infrastructure. Baggage processing is also expected to become more efficient, with handling time projected at around 45 minutes.
Part of Bali Airport’s Bigger Transit Ambitions
Beyond simply shortening transfer times, the new bridge reflects Bali airport’s wider push to create a more seamless transit experience. Airport management has indicated ambitions to strengthen Ngurah Rai’s role as a regional transit hub, potentially making it easier for travellers to connect between destinations across Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
For now, access to the transfer bridge is limited to passengers travelling on certain airlines and eligible connecting itineraries. Airport and airline staff will direct passengers who qualify to use the new route, while airport management aims to eventually expand the service to more passengers and airlines.
For Bali-bound travellers, the development could make a noticeable difference. Shorter connection times mean less time navigating between terminals and more time getting on with the journey—an especially welcome improvement for passengers arriving after long international flights.
With the new bridge now in operation, Bali’s main gateway is taking another step toward a smoother, more connected airport experience.
