Costly Hobby at Merah Bridge: Sultan-Priced Model Aircraft

Every weekend, the Randa Randu Aeromodelling Bali community transforms Merah Bridge in the Bali Cultural Centre (PKB) area of Klungkung into an airstrip. The expansive former C-grade mining site in Gunaksa Village, Dawan Subdistrict is deemed the most comfortable and safe location for their aeronautical hobby—a costly pastime. The activity of flying miniature aircraft replicas occurs once a week. A dozen or more members from across Bali arrive from 6:00 AM WITA, using the bridge area as a runway from morning until 11:00 AM. Despite the absence of spectators or crowds, the sight of remote-controlled planes taking off and slicing through Klungkung’s sky offers a unique thrill to passersby. Interviewed by detikBali on Saturday, 30 May 2026, Randa Rundu Bali Community Chair Nyoman Wira Gunarta (39) explained the location was chosen for safety reasons. Before settling in Klungkung, the community, established in 2002, had moved locations multiple times, including rice fields in Tabanan and Siyut Beach in Gianyar. ‘We used to fly in Tabanan’s rice fields, but feared disrupting farmers’ work and endangering people nearby. After checking this spot, we found it ideal and decided to move here to Merah Bridge PKB,’ said the Mengwi, Badung native. Wira added that the community is open to anyone wanting to join or learn, despite the risk of unit damage. ‘Awal-awal pemula biasanya masih takut jatuh, dan memang kemungkinan jatuh itu selalu ada saat latihan terbang. Tapi kami di sini saling berbagi ilmu,’ imbuhnya. The plane he flies himself costs Rp 19 million, just one of around 12 aircraft in his collection. Nine are flight-ready, while three are under assembly, with varying types and prices. Regarding the hobby, Wira explained members have diverse motivations, but are united by a shared passion. ‘Like me, I’m a furniture entrepreneur. Here, I’ve met many business contacts,’ he added. Asked about the name ‘Randa Rundu’, Wira smiled and explained their history of moving between locations to fly mini planes. ‘Randa-rundu means ’going back and forth’, he concluded. Without spectators, 10 to 15 members enjoy every moment piloting their fleet on the makeshift runway. Community member Nengah Jaya Widiantara (33) noted hobbyists gather from across Bali’s regencies. ‘Our members include locals from Klungkung, as well as those travelling from Denpasar, Gianyar, Mengwi, and even Tegalalang,’ said Nengah. Capable of Flying as Far as Nusa Penida The aircraft collection soaring over the PKB project site varies widely, reflecting diverse hobby investments. Beginner models, such as lightweight styrofoam trainer planes costing around Rp 2.5 million, are used to hone flying skills without major loss if crashed. Mid-range replicas like Decathlon and Breitling models help refine navigation precision. For the high-end ‘sultan’ class, the community flies premium replica jets such as the T7 A EDF manufacturer models and even genuine turbine-powered units costing up to Rp 120 million each. Additionally, advanced units equipped with ELRS remote systems can be controlled up to 5km and capture visuals as far as Nusa Penida Island. The main reason Randa Rundu Community stays here is the expansive landscape free from obstacles like cables or power poles. Mornings at Merah Bridge offer striking visuals. The rising sun illuminates the vibrant red bridge architecture, perfectly complemented by the majestic silhouette of Mount Agung in the background. The combination of East Bali’s serene natural beauty and the intricate aeromodelling technology creates a captivating weekend atmosphere that delights onlookers.