Currently, there are no direct flights operating between Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY) and Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). Travelers from the Sunshine Coast will need to take connecting flights to reach this popular Indonesian destination. The most common route involves a connection through either Brisbane (BNE) or Sydney (SYD), with some travelers also routing through Melbourne (MEL). The total travel time typically ranges from 9 to 15 hours depending on the length of your layover and which connection point you choose.
Several airlines service this route through their various partnerships and code-share agreements. Jetstar and Virgin Australia are the primary carriers for the domestic leg from Sunshine Coast to Brisbane or Sydney, while Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Garuda Indonesia operate the international flights from these cities to Denpasar. The flight duration from Brisbane to Bali is approximately 6 hours, making it the quickest option when combined with the short 30-45 minute flight from Sunshine Coast to Brisbane. Some travelers prefer routing through Sydney, which offers more airline options and flight times throughout the day, though this adds to the overall journey time.
Best Time to Book
- Book your flights 2-3 months in advance for the best deals, especially if traveling during peak season (June-September and December-January)
- Tuesday and Wednesday departures tend to offer lower ticket costs compared to weekend flights
- Sign up for fare alerts from airlines and comparison websites to catch price drops
- Consider traveling during Bali’s shoulder seasons (April-May or October-November) when flights are typically cheaper
Finding Cheap Flights
- Compare prices across multiple booking platforms and airline websites to ensure you’re getting the best price
- Be flexible with your travel dates – even shifting by a day or two can result in significant savings
- Consider booking your domestic and international legs separately, as this sometimes yields cheaper flights than booking as a through ticket
- Look for package deals that combine flights with accommodation, which can offer better overall value
What Affects Ticket Prices
- Peak holiday periods (Christmas, Easter, Australian school holidays) see prices increase by 30-50%
- Connection times impact cost – longer layovers are often cheaper but require more travel time
- Baggage allowances vary significantly between airlines, with budget carriers charging extra for checked luggage
- How much you pay depends heavily on booking timing, with last-minute fares typically costing considerably more
Airlines and Options
- Jetstar offers competitive rates and operates both domestic and international segments
- Virgin Australia provides good connecting flights with reasonable baggage allowances
- Qantas and Garuda Indonesia offer premium service options for those seeking more comfort
- Most connecting flights through Brisbane offer the shortest total travel time from Sunshine Coast
