Bali getting too crowded for your liking? Here’s a new alternative for your beach escapades. Thanks to a new flight route between Changi Airport and Indonesia’s Komodo International Airport, the coastal town of Labuan Bajo is now within easier reach for travellers from Singapore. This marks the first and only direct flights between the two locations – with wallet-friendly prices as an added draw. In fact, Labuan Bajo was recently named one of the 10 cheapest holiday destinations for Singaporeans in 2025.
Previously, travellers from the Lion City would have to do a stopover in other cities like Jakarta or Denpasar before taking a domestic flight to Labuan Bajo averaging one and a half hours – resulting in a total travel duration of around six and a half hours. With Jetstar’s new direct flights, you can now get straight to Labuan Bajo in slightly over three hours. That’s half the time saved.
So, what does Labuan Bajo have to offer? For one, it’s surrounded by the bluest waters, and has plenty of hilly terrain for you to explore through a good hike. Sylvia Hill is a popular place for that, and its peak is where you can witness some of the most beautiful sunsets. Alternatively, delve into the depths of Batu Cermin – also known as the Mirror Stone Cave for its sparkling limestone walls – and Rangko Cave which has a natural turquoise pool you can swim in. There are also waterfalls to cool down at when the weather gets hot, and street stalls with fresh seafood.
While Labuan Bajo is much, much quieter than Bali’s party districts, that’s not to say that it’s completely devoid of nightlife. A handful of beach clubs and bars keep things lively past sundown after you’re done with the day’s adventures.
Labuan Bajo also serves as a gateway to the beautiful Komodo Island, where you can embark on coral reef diving expeditions, kayak in crystal clear waters, and admire the famous rose-hued Pink Beach. And yes, it’s also the namesake of the Komodo dragon, so expect to spot the giant lizard ambling around as you’re out and about.
With four public holiday long weekends to look forward to this year, a quick getaway to Labuan Bajo would certainly be a great idea if you’re looking to explore beyond the usual neighbouring destinations that most Singaporeans tend to flock to.
The new direct flights between Changi Airport Terminal 4 and Komodo International Airport will run twice a week each way, starting from March 20, 2025. Departing flights are scheduled for Thursdays and Sundays at 2.10pm, arriving at Labuan Bajo at 5.20pm. Returning flights are also on Thursdays and Sundays, leaving from Labuan Bajo at 6pm and landing back in Singapore at 9.10pm.
We did a quick check and saw round-trips priced for as low as $144, inclusive of taxes (without check-in baggage added). Tickets are already on sale via Jetstar’s website as of January 9, 2025.
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