Amphibious Aircraft Flights Begin Operations in Banyuwangi
Banyuwangi has become the first operational base for Santai Seaplane, a premium amphibious aircraft service provider developing tourism flight networks and inter-island connectivity in Indonesia. The new operational base is expected to expand access to a number of tourist destinations in East Java, Bali, and the island regions of Nusa Tenggara.
The operational base was inaugurated on 10 June 2026 in Banyuwangi. The facility will serve as a centre for scenic flights, charter flights, and connectivity to tourist destinations that have previously required relatively long travel times by land and sea.
Santai Seaplane CEO Wirmandi Sugriat said Banyuwangi was chosen for its strategic position as a gateway to various tourist destinations in East Java and Bali. “Banyuwangi is the perfect starting point for our operational expansion. Its strategic location, stunning natural panoramas, and visionary regional leadership make it an ideal hub. Today, we are not only inaugurating an operational base, but also opening a new way for the world to enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the archipelago,” Wirmandi said on Monday (15/6/2026).
From Banyuwangi, Santai Seaplane plans to serve a number of scenic flight routes, including the Mount Ijen and Mount Bromo areas. The company is also preparing connectivity to Bali, the Gili Islands, Lombok, and West Sumbawa.
In addition to serving tourists, the company is targeting the charter flight market for business and private travel needs to several cities in East Java, such as Malang and Surabaya.
General Manager of Banyuwangi International Airport Mohamad Holik Muardi assessed that the presence of the service could complement the air transport options available in the Banyuwangi region. “We are very enthusiastic about welcoming Santai Seaplane to Banyuwangi International Airport. This operation presents a unique aviation product that complements existing infrastructure, while reinforcing our airport’s status as a sustainable, dynamic, and continuously growing gateway in East Java,” Holik said.
Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani assessed that the amphibious aircraft service has the potential to support the development of high-value tourism in her region. According to her, more diverse transport access can open up opportunities for tourist visits to destinations that have not been optimally connected. “The presence of Santai Seaplane elevates our beloved nickname ‘Sunrise of Java’ to a higher level. This premium service unlocks our region’s potential for high-quality tourism while demonstrating Banyuwangi’s readiness to compete on the global stage,” Ipuk said.
Beyond the tourism sector, Santai Seaplane also stated it is developing services that can support logistical and humanitarian needs in archipelagic regions. Some planned services include medical evacuation, logistics delivery to remote areas, and support for environmental and maritime area monitoring. The company is targeting the gradual development of an amphibious flight network over the next few years as part of efforts to expand connectivity to destinations that are difficult to reach via conventional transport modes.