Amphibious Airline Opens Operating Base in Banyuwangi to Boost Tourism and Inter-Island Connectivity

Santai Seaplane has officially opened its operating base in Banyuwangi, East Java, as a step to strengthen premium connectivity while supporting tourism development and inter-island transport in eastern Indonesia. The inauguration on 10 June marks the start of the amphibious airline’s operations, offering aerial sightseeing, inter-island flights, and exclusive charters for tourism and business needs. CEO Wirmandi Sugriat said Banyuwangi was chosen for its strategic location, natural wealth, and local government support, which are seen as capable of driving the development of new flight networks. “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 operating base but also opening a new way for the world to enjoy the unparalleled beauty of the archipelago,” Wirmandi stated. The operating base will serve as a centre for scenic flights, inter-island connectivity, and charter flights to various destinations in East Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara. General Manager of Banyuwangi International Airport Mohamad Holik Muardi welcomed the service as a complement to the air transport infrastructure already available in the region. “We are very enthusiastic about welcoming Santai Seaplane to Banyuwangi International Airport. This operation presents a unique flight product that complements existing infrastructure while reinforcing our airport’s status as a sustainable, dynamic, and continuously developing gateway in East Java,” he said. Through this new base, Santai Seaplane is introducing several flagship routes. For aerial sightseeing, passengers will be invited to enjoy the panorama of Mount Ijen with its turquoise crater and the landscape of Mount Bromo from above. Connectivity services to Bali are also available, including routes to Letkol Wisnu Airfield, the Menjangan area in Northwest Bali, Ngurah Rai International Airport, and nearby water landing and take-off points. The airline is also opening flight networks to the Gili Islands, Lombok, West Sumbawa, and other surrounding areas. Private charter services are prepared for journeys to Malang, Surabaya, and several major cities in East Java. Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani assessed that Santai Seaplane’s presence can strengthen Banyuwangi’s position as a world-class tourist destination offering a different travel experience. “The arrival of Santai Seaplane elevates our beloved ‘Sunrise of Java’ moniker 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,” she said. Santai Seaplane has also prepared a 10-year long-term development plan to build a network of water aerodromes across various regions of Indonesia using a new generation of amphibious aircraft claimed to be more environmentally friendly. The concept is expected to open access to remote tourist destinations without requiring the construction of conventional runways, which need large investments and potentially cause environmental impact. Deputy for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism Ni Made Ayu Marthini appreciated the move, as it is considered aligned with the national tourism development strategy. “Innovative and sustainable tourism products like those offered by Santai Seaplane are very much in line with our strategic vision. Improving inter-island connectivity through amphibious flights creates unforgettable experiences that represent the essence of Wonderful Indonesia,” she said. Beyond serving the tourism sector, Santai Seaplane is also preparing its fleet to support various humanitarian missions and public services, such as medical evacuations from remote areas, delivery of essential logistics to island regions, and environmental and maritime monitoring in cooperation with the government and conservation agencies. With the operation of the new base in Banyuwangi, the company hopes to strengthen Nusantara connectivity while supporting economic growth, sustainable tourism, and transport services for communities in coastal areas and remote islands.