Great news for anyone who has been wanting to visit Rote, but really dislike Indonesian ferries! Wings Air has announced the resumption of its flight service between Kupang and Rote Island, set to begin on September 20th, 2024.
Here is what we know so far.
Flight Schedule to Rote
Wings Air, a subsidiary of Lion Air Group, will operate daily flights connecting El Tari International Airport in Kupang (KOE) with D.C. Saudale Airport on Rote Island (RTI). This consistent schedule helps travelers have flexibility in planning their trips to our beautiful island.
The flight details are as follows:
- Kupang to Rote Island (KOE – RTI):
- Flight Number: IW1937
- Departure Time: 07:40
- Arrival Time: 08:10
- Rote Island to Kupang (RTI – KOE):
- Flight Number: IW1934
- Departure Time: 23:00
- Arrival Time: 23:30
With a flight time of just 30 minutes, visitors can now bypass the longer ferry options, saving time and energy.
Wings Air Surfboard Policy and Fees
If you have traveled with surfboards in Indonesia before, you will know it can be complicated, and if you’ve been following any Indo surf travel groups or forums, you might have heard about the change in surfboard fees.
Surfboard Fees on Wings Air
Wings Air charge 1,000,000 IDR per surfboard (about 65 USD at time of writing).
And thanks to the growth in surf travel to Rote, they know to look inside the bags and count your boards. Bear in mind, you will also have to pay 500,000 IDR per board to fly Lion Air from Jakarta or Bali, traveling with a bunch of board can be really add the costs to your trip.
If you are on a budget, the ferry options are a lot cheaper.
Surfboard fees are paid in cash when you check-in at Kupang.
Surfboard Size Policies on Wings Air
Maximum length is 200cm (about 6 feet 6 inches)
Wings Air operates the ATR-600 aircraft between Kupang and Rote. These are smaller propeller powered aircraft (68-74 seats) and with the smaller size comes more limitations on surfboard sizes.
If flying on a propeller-type aircraft (IW), the maximum length is 200cm (about 6 feet 6 inches). Meaning if you are traveling with longer boards you will need to either take the ferry option, or arrange sending your surfboard on the ferry while you fly.
What Does It Mean for Rote Island Tourism
The reintroduction of this air route is expected to have a significant impact on Rote Island’s tourism industry. Previously, reaching this remote paradise required a more complex journey involving flights to Kupang followed by a ferry or speedboat ride. The new direct flights will not only cut travel time dramatically but also make the island more accessible to a wider range of travelers.
This improved accessibility is likely to boost visitor numbers, potentially leading to:
- Increased economic opportunities for local businesses
- Greater investment in tourism infrastructure
- Enhanced visibility of Rote Island as a prime Indonesian destination
However, it’s worth noting that the charm of Rote Island lies in its unspoiled beauty and laid-back atmosphere. As visitor numbers potentially increase, it will be crucial for both travelers and local authorities to prioritize sustainable tourism practices to preserve the island’s unique character.
What This Means for Travelers
For those planning a trip to Rote Island, this new flight option offers several advantages:
- Time-saving: The short 30-minute flight significantly reduces travel time compared to sea-based options.
- Comfort: Air travel provides a more comfortable experience, especially for those prone to seasickness.
- Reliability: Daily flights offer more flexibility in travel planning and potentially fewer weather-related disruptions compared to sea travel.
- You can fly with surfboards: Wings Air typically has surfboard-friendly policies, which is great news for surfers heading to Rote’s famous breaks, BUT it isn’t cheap. More on that next.
Planning Your Trip
While the flights are set to begin on September 20th, 2024, it’s important to note that this is still a proposed start date. Wings Air has submitted a request for time slot processing and route permits with the stated schedule. Travelers are advised to keep an eye on official announcements from Wings Air or Lion Air Group for confirmed launch dates and booking information.
Once available, these flights are likely to be in high demand, especially during peak surfing season (May to September). Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred travel dates.
Wings Air flights can be booked through the Lion Air website when available.
Conclusion
The resumption of Wings Air flights between Kupang and Rote Island marks an exciting new chapter for this Indonesian paradise. By making the journey shorter and more convenient, these flights open up Rote Island to a new wave of travelers eager to experience its world-class surfing, pristine beaches, and unique culture.
As we look forward to the official launch of this route, one thing is clear: the path to one of Indonesia’s most captivating islands is about to become a whole lot smoother. Whether you’re a surf enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Rote Island is now more accessible than ever. Get ready to discover the magic of Rote.
