I GUSTI Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali will be closed for the entirety of Nyepi Day, scheduled to fall on March 29.
“All flights will be suspended during Nyepi,” Faik Fahmi, the CEO of state-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports), announced on Friday (01/21), 2025.
This announcement comes as the day of silence observed by the Hindu Balinese coincides with the expected peak homecoming period for the Islamic holiday Eid al-Fitr, estimated to fall on March 31.
While acknowledging the 24-hour airport closure, Fahmi stressed the importance of close coordination with relevant ministries and institutions to address the unique challenges posed during this homecoming period.
Bali typically sees a significant increase in tourist arrivals during the extended Eid holiday.
“Given that Nyepi occurs two days before Eid, we are actively coordinating with stakeholders and ministries to develop appropriate policies,” he explained.
“We may advise travelers planning a Bali trip to adjust their travel plans, perhaps arriving before or after Eid to avoid the Nyepi closure,” Fahmi remarked.
I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport had previously handled similar situations, having closed during Nyepi Day when it coincided with Eid al-Adha in 2002.
Fahmi expressed confidence in the airport’s capability to manage operations effectively by implementing appropriate measures currently under discussion.
The peak homecoming season is still under assessment. Ongoing discussions with the government, particularly with the Ministry of Transportation, are aimed at finalizing school holiday schedules and establishing transportation posts.
“During the 2002 closure, I understand that Eid prayers were conducted respectfully, with the observance of silence and minimal vehicle movement. This demonstrates a spirit of mutual respect and will be carefully considered in our current deliberations,” Fahmi concluded. [antaranews/photo special]