Direct flights from Melbourne to Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar are readily available, making this one of the most popular routes from Australia. Several major airlines operate regular direct flights on this route, including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Indonesia’s Garuda Indonesia. The flight duration for direct flights typically ranges from 5 to 6 hours, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to reach the island quickly without the hassle of connections. During peak holiday seasons, additional services are often added to meet the high demand from Australian travelers heading to this tropical destination.
When it comes to pricing, the cost of flights can vary significantly depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Budget carriers like Jetstar often offer the most competitive fares, with prices sometimes starting as low as a few hundred dollars for a one-way ticket during promotional periods. Full-service airlines such as Qantas and Garuda Indonesia typically charge higher fares but include additional amenities like checked baggage, meals, and entertainment. The abundance of direct flights and multiple airlines operating this route creates healthy competition, which generally works in favor of travelers looking for good deals throughout the year.
Flights Schedule
Best Time to Book
- Book your flights at least 6-8 weeks in advance for the best deals on this popular route
- Tuesday and Wednesday departures are often cheaper than weekend flights
- Avoid booking during Australian school holidays when demand and ticket costs spike significantly
- The best time to book is typically between February and May, or September to early November when prices drop
Finding Cheap Flights
- Use flight comparison websites to track prices across multiple airlines simultaneously
- Set up price alerts to get notifications when fares drop for your preferred travel dates
- Consider flying during off-peak hours like early morning or late night departures for lower fares
- Be flexible with your travel dates by a few days either way to access better pricing options
- Check airline websites directly after comparing, as they sometimes offer exclusive deals
What Affects Ticket Prices
- School holidays and major holiday periods like Christmas and Easter see the highest prices
- Special events and festivals in Bali can drive up demand and ticket costs
- Fuel prices and currency exchange rates impact how much airlines charge
- Booking last-minute typically results in significantly higher fares
Airlines and Options
- Jetstar offers the most frequent budget flights with competitive base fares but charges extra for baggage and meals
- Virgin Australia provides a mid-range option with better inclusions than budget carriers
- Qantas and Garuda Indonesia offer full-service experiences with all amenities included in the best price
- All airlines offer similar flight durations since they’re all direct flights on the same route
