Sichuan Airlines, a prominent carrier in China, is broadening its international flight offerings with the introduction of a new route from Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, to Bali, Indonesia. Starting on September 26, 2025, the airline will operate daily flights connecting Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) with Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali. This new route will be operated using the Airbus A320 aircraft, which is known for its efficiency and comfort on short- to medium-haul flights. The service aims to boost both tourism and business connections between these two destinations, making travel between Southwest China and one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist spots more accessible than ever before.
Flight Schedule
Sichuan Airlines will operate the new flight between Chengdu and Bali once daily. Here is the scheduled flight times:
Flight 3U3985 will depart Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) at 15:15 and arrive in Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) at 22:05 local time.
Flight 3U3986 will depart from Bali (DPS) at 23:05 and return to Chengdu (TFU) at 05:50 the next day.
These convenient flight times ensure that travelers can easily depart in the afternoon and evening, minimizing the disruption to their schedules and offering a seamless travel experience. The daily service will be a welcome addition for both leisure and business travelers, connecting the two regions for a range of travel purposes.
Strategic Importance of the New Route
The new Chengdu–Bali route represents a significant milestone in Sichuan Airlines ongoing expansion into Southeast Asia. By introducing this direct flight, the airline is enhancing its global network and addressing the increasing demand for travel between China and Indonesia. Bali, known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant tourism sector, attracts millions of tourists every year, including a growing number of Chinese visitors.
Chengdu, located in the southwestern region of China, is rapidly becoming a major hub for international flights, especially to Southeast Asia. The city has long been an important center of commerce, culture, and tourism within China. The new Bali route reflects Sichuan Airlines’ commitment to offering convenient and direct connections to top tourist destinations in the region, further cementing its position in the competitive Southeast Asian market.
Economic and Tourism Benefits
This new flight route is expected to stimulate economic growth in both China and Indonesia. Bali is one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia, and the direct flight from Chengdu will make it easier for travelers from Southwest China to experience Bali’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class resorts. It will also open up new opportunities for Chinese tourists to explore Indonesia, benefiting the Indonesian tourism industry, which is eager to welcome more international visitors.
On the flip side, Bali’s international tourism sector is increasingly reliant on Chinese visitors, with China being one of the largest source markets for tourists in the region. The introduction of direct flights will facilitate more business and leisure travel from Bali to Chengdu and other parts of China, boosting the tourism economy of Bali and Indonesia. Not only will this benefit tourism, but it will also encourage trade, cultural exchange, and business partnerships between the two countries.
The Indonesian government has placed emphasis on strengthening its tourism infrastructure, and this route aligns well with its efforts to increase the number of international visitors. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Bali continues to be one of the country’s leading tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually. As more airlines expand their operations to Bali, the local economy stands to benefit greatly, creating job opportunities and promoting long-term growth in the hospitality sector.
Sichuan Airlines: Expanding Its Global Footprint
Founded in 1986 and headquartered in Chengdu, Sichuan Airlines has been a significant player in China’s aviation industry. With a fleet consisting mainly of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, the airline operates a wide range of domestic and international flights. Sichuan Airlines has established itself as a trusted carrier, offering affordable and reliable services to both leisure and business travelers.
The airline has consistently expanded its reach in recent years, focusing on adding direct international routes to destinations in Asia, Europe, and beyond. The Chengdu–Bali flight is part of this broader strategy to increase the airline’s footprint in key international markets. By focusing on Southeast Asia, Sichuan Airlines is tapping into a growing demand for travel to and from this region, as well as capitalizing on the increasing number of travelers from China seeking vacation destinations in Bali and beyond.
Passenger Experience: Comfort and Convenience
For passengers flying on the Chengdu–Bali route, Sichuan Airlines will offer a comfortable and convenient travel experience on its Airbus A320 aircraft. The A320 is known for its modern amenities, efficient fuel consumption, and smooth flying experience. With its spacious cabin and comfortable seating configuration, passengers will enjoy a relaxing journey, whether they are traveling for business or leisure.
Sichuan Airlines prioritizes passenger comfort, providing excellent in-flight services, including meals, entertainment, and attentive crew. Travelers can expect a hassle-free experience from check-in to arrival, thanks to the airline’s commitment to customer service. As part of the airline’s growth strategy, the Chengdu–Bali route will be a key focus in ensuring customer satisfaction and meeting the demands of international travelers.
With the opening of the Chengdu–Bali route, Sichuan Airlines is set to make a significant impact on tourism and connectivity between China and Indonesia. The service is expected to foster closer cultural ties between the two countries while offering travelers a convenient, cost-effective option for international travel. Bali’s allure as a top tourist destination will continue to grow, and this new route will play a pivotal role in driving that growth.
Sichuan Airlines’ new Chengdu–Bali route is an exciting development for both the airline and the tourism sectors in China and Indonesia. This direct flight offers new opportunities for travel, trade, and cultural exchange, while also positioning Sichuan Airlines as a leading carrier in the region. As the route becomes operational in 2025, it will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for thousands of passengers and contribute to the ongoing economic and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Credit: travelandtourworld
