Monday, June 23, 2025
In a strategic move to enhance regional connectivity, Singapore and Changi Airport Group are set to launch new direct flights to Semarang, Palembang, and Belitung in Indonesia. This game-changing initiative aims to provide seamless travel options between Singapore and these growing Indonesian cities, reducing the need for layovers in Jakarta. By offering direct access to these emerging destinations, Singapore and Changi Airport Group are not only supporting the expansion of business, tourism, and trade but also strengthening their role as a regional aviation hub. These new routes are expected to unlock new opportunities for both leisure travelers seeking undiscovered gems in Indonesia and business professionals looking to tap into the burgeoning markets in these cities.
These developments come as part of Indonesia’s broader aviation strategy to streamline air traffic. In 2024, the government reduced the number of airports authorized for international flights from 34 to 17, emphasizing the most critical hubs. The recertification of Semarang, Palembang, and Belitung is expected to open up new opportunities for air traffic, connecting the Indonesian regions more efficiently to international destinations.
Discovering New Destinations
Semarang, located in Central Java, is a city steeped in colonial-era architecture and cultural diversity. Just a short distance from Borobudur, one of the world’s most iconic Buddhist landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a rich cultural experience. Palembang, in South Sumatra, is a historical city known for its vibrant culinary scene and traditional charm. Meanwhile, Belitung Island, off the east coast of Sumatra, is gaining popularity as a serene resort destination, boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant opportunities for snorkeling and island hopping.
Currently, travelers from Singapore wishing to visit these destinations must transit through Jakarta, with layover durations ranging from two and a half to nine hours at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The planned direct flights will streamline the travel experience, increasing accessibility to these regions for both business and leisure travelers.
CAG has long sought to expand air connectivity between Singapore and Indonesia, and this initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen regional travel links. According to CAG data, Jakarta and Bali remain the most popular destinations for travelers, ranking third and fourth respectively in terms of passenger traffic at Singapore’s Changi Airport from January to May 2025.
Positive Impact on Aviation and Tourism Sectors
The introduction of direct flight services between Singapore and these secondary Indonesian cities is expected to have a significant impact on both tourism and business travel. The new routes will enhance connectivity, creating new avenues for tourism, increasing transit traffic, and boosting trade between Singapore and Indonesia.
Semarang and Palembang, both large provincial cities with populations over 1.7 million, hold strong potential for business travel, with numerous opportunities for professional connections and cargo transport. Belitung Island, on the other hand, is a growing niche destination for leisure travelers seeking a more tranquil experience compared to Bali or Jakarta.
The addition of these routes will likely have a positive effect on the local economies of these Indonesian cities, stimulating infrastructure development and attracting increased investment in the region.
Strengthening Changi Airport’s Regional Hub Role
For Changi Airport, expanding its network to include these new routes would further solidify its role as a leading hub in Southeast Asia. However, keeping operational costs low for airlines is crucial to ensure that Changi remains competitive, especially when compared to other regional airports, such as Kuala Lumpur International, which are known for their more affordable operating environments.
As of June 2025, Singapore is already well connected to 13 Indonesian destinations, with over 480 weekly flights operated by 10 airlines, including routes to Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya. The introduction of Semarang, Palembang, and Belitung would diversify Singapore’s network, catering to both leisure and business travelers seeking new, less crowded options for their journeys.
Conclusion
The proposed direct flight connections between Singapore and Semarang, Palembang, and Belitung represent a significant development in Indonesia’s aviation landscape. By introducing these new routes, Singapore and Changi Airport can tap into emerging markets, further enhancing tourism and business opportunities. As these cities continue to grow in prominence, the increased connectivity will not only benefit travelers but also contribute to the economic development of these regions in Indonesia.
