Direct Hong Kong–Surabaya Flights Expected to Boost Tourism

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The launch of direct Hong Kong–Surabaya flights by Greater Bay Airlines is strengthening Juanda International Airport’s role as East Java’s primary tourism gateway. Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism’s Deputy for Marketing, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, said the new connectivity will make it easier for international tourists to explore Surabaya and surrounding areas’ diverse culinary, cultural, and nature-based destinations.

“The introduction of this direct flight is a proactive step to accommodate the increase in international tourist visits from Hong Kong to Indonesia,” said Made in a ministry press statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

Starting September 25, 2026, Greater Bay Airlines began offering direct Hong Kong–Surabaya services three times a week, every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The airline is operating 189-seat aircraft to carry passengers from Hong Kong International Airport to Juanda International Airport, with the inaugural flight officially taking off on Friday, September 25, 2026.

Made noted that opening direct flights from Hong Kong to Surabaya could enhance accessibility and competitiveness for Indonesia’s tourism sector. This initiative is ultimately expected to boost the potential of tourist destinations, particularly in Surabaya City and East Java Province.

As reported by Antara, the Ministry of Tourism reported that international tourist arrivals from Hong Kong to Indonesia reached 87,631 visits from January to July 2026. This marks a 25.97 percent increase compared to the same period last year, which recorded 69,567 visits.

In 2025, Juanda International Airport ranked third among entry points most frequently used by international tourists from Hong Kong, with a total of 4,183 visits. The improved connectivity between Hong Kong and Surabaya is expected to further increase international tourist arrivals from Hong Kong to Surabaya and wider East Java.

“The presence of this direct route presents a strategic opportunity to maximize this positive momentum while increasing future tourist visits. Surabaya also offers a variety of attractive experiences for Hong Kong tourists, ranging from culinary richness and cultural heritage to urban attractions and nature-based tourism,” she added. ***

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