Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has rolled out an extensive series of measures to address the expected traffic surge during the 2024 Christmas and New Year holiday season.
This initiative aims to prevent a repeat of last year’s gridlock, which saw travelers abandoning vehicles and walking to the airport as traffic jams stretched for hours.
With 1.3 million passengers anticipated during the 19-day festive period—a 10% increase from last year—the airport has enhanced its facilities and introduced traffic management improvements.
General Manager Ahmad Syaugi Shahab announced the implementation of several key measures to streamline operations both inside and outside the airport:
Expanded Security and Vehicle Access
To reduce congestion in the terminals, the number of security checkpoint lanes has been increased.
The domestic terminal now features five lanes on the first floor (up from three) and four lanes on the second floor (up from three).
Additional x-ray machines have also been installed in both domestic and international terminals to expedite passenger processing.
Outside, vehicle access points have been widened, and a cashless parking system has been introduced to improve traffic flow.
“We’ve expanded several access points for vehicle lanes,” said Ahmad, noting that the adjustments aim to mitigate bottlenecks during peak periods.
Traffic Rerouting Plans
The airport will collaborate with police and local authorities to redirect traffic when necessary. Should congestion arise near the iconic Patung Kuda roundabout, vehicles may be rerouted through alternative routes, such as the Harris Hotel junction.
Additionally, traffic light timings at key intersections will be adjusted to ease vehicle flow.
If congestion persists, cars returning to the airport will be directed to reroute through the Taman Hutan Rakyat Ngurah Rai area.
To assist stranded passengers, 10 motorcycles and tow trucks will be stationed to aid travelers whose vehicles may break down or become stuck.
“We aim to prevent situations where passengers are completely stuck and unable to reach the airport,” Ahmad explained, emphasizing the importance of ensuring smooth access for travelers.
Integrated Efforts for Smooth Operations
An integrated command post will operate 24/7 from Dec. 18, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025, to monitor passenger movements and ensure seamless coordination.
The airport has also deployed joint officers at congestion-prone areas such as Dewi Sartika intersection, Kubu Anyar, and Patung Kuda roundabout.
Local government authorities in Badung Regency are similarly preparing for heavy traffic in popular tourist areas such as Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta, which are expected to see an influx of domestic and international tourists.
Deputy Regent I Ketut Suiasa called for close coordination between village officials and police to maintain orderly traffic during the holiday season.
