International Flights to Belitung Resume, Tourism Revives

After being suspended for several years, International Flights to Belitung Island officially resumed operations on Sunday, May 3, 2026. This moment marks a new chapter in the revival of Tourism on the island known for its granite beaches, while also opening wider access for Foreign Tourists.

The government views this step as a strategic boost to develop the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (KEK). The area is projected to become a new growth center relying on the tourism sector as the main driver of the regional economy.

"The economic impact and multiplier effect of opening this international gateway are very significant. The projection is highly optimistic; economic growth on Belitung Island has the potential to surge, strongly driven by the foreign exchange brought in by international tourists," stated Haryo Limanseto in his remarks in Jakarta on Wednesday.

This international route connects Belitung-Singapore via Scoot airline services. Flights from Changi Airport are scheduled twice a week and have immediately attracted tourists, especially from the Southeast Asia region.

The inaugural flight, using an Embraer E190-E2 aircraft with a capacity of 112 seats, recorded 80 arriving passengers, representing a load factor of over 70 percent. This figure is an initial signal that Belitung is once again being considered as an international destination.

Beyond visitor numbers, the presence of Foreign Tourists is believed to have a direct impact on the local economy. The hospitality and transportation sectors, down to micro-enterprises, are expected to feel the benefits of faster economic circulation.

This model has been proven in various Global Destinations like Bali, Langkawi, and Koh Samui, where air connectivity is the main key to attracting quality tourists.

In a global context, this strategy also aligns with steps taken by countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, which are making tourism a new engine of economic growth.

Data shows a positive trend, with Tourist Visits to Belitung increasing from around 7,000 in 2023 to 10,000 in 2024. With the return of direct flights, this figure is predicted to continue rising.

Furthermore, Belitung's geographical position, only about one hour from Jakarta, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur, makes it increasingly strategic as a regional destination. This ease of access adds value in building the destination's image.

"The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs is committed to leveraging the International Airport status to boost the tourism sector in Belitung, supported by the existence of the Tanjung Kelayang Tourism Special Economic Zone," added Herfan Brilianto.

The government emphasized that opening this route is not merely about connectivity, but part of a larger strategy to drive investment, create jobs, and strengthen Belitung's position on the global tourism map.

"We see this not just as the opening of a Flight Route, but as part of a major strategy to accelerate regional economic growth, create employment, and expand the base for the country's foreign exchange earnings," stressed Haryo.

With its still pristine natural landscape and now easier access, Belitung is gradually reopening itself—not just as a Tourist Destination, but as a new story in Indonesia's journey on the World Tourism stage.