Cheap flights to Jakarta from Australia

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, is a city that never sleeps. Known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic urban life, it offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. As Australians, we may first think of places like Bali or Lombok, but Jakarta is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff, a shopaholic, or a foodie, this city has something for everyone. And it's easier to get to than you may think

How long is the flight to Jakarta?

It depends where you’re coming from, of course! Direct flights to the Indonesian capital are available from three cities, and connecting flights are available from dozens more. You can get to Jakarta on just one flight from Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Here’s how long it takes.

Direct flights to Jakarta

• Melbourne to Jakarta – 7 hours, 15 minutes
• Perth to Jakarta – 4 hours, 30 minutes
• Sydney to Jakarta – 7 hour, 45 minutes

What’s the main airport in Jakarta?

Jakarta does have two airports, with Soekarno-Hatta International Airport being the largest and where flights from Australia will arrive. There is also Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in East Jakarta, but it’s currently only used for domestic flights. So if you’re planning a multi-city trip, be sure to check which airport any additional flights are departing from.

Soekarno-Hatta (CGK) is about an hour by car to the centre of Jakarta. You can also take a train from the airport in about 1 hour, 15 minutes. If you’re heading to other areas, like BSD, it will take about 45 minutes by car or an hour on the bus.

Transportation Options from Jakarta Airport to the City

Upon arriving at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, there are several transportation options to reach the city centre.

• The most convenient choice is the airport train, which connects the airport to various parts of Jakarta.
• Opt for a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Grab or Gojek for a more personalised journey.
• For a budget-friendly option, airport buses are available, offering routes to major areas in the city.

How early to arrive at the airports for Jakarta flights

Flying to Indonesia from Australia

If you’re flying to Indonesia on a direct international flight, you’ll want to arrive about three hours early to ensure you have enough time to check in, check bags, go through customs and pass security. 

Flying within Indonesia

If you’re flying from one city in Indonesia to another, you’ll only need to arrive at the airport about an hour before. Just keep in mind that traffic in places like Jakarta and all over Bali can be pretty heavy, so leave plenty of time to get there so you don’t miss your flight.

Which airlines fly to Jakarta from Australia?

There's only a few airlines that fly direct to Jakarta from Australia:

• Garuda Indonesia: Melbourne, Sydney
• Qantas: Sydney
• Batik Air: Perth

If you don't mind a connection, or are looking for more budget options, you might be able to find cheaper fares via Bali, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur with airlines such as Jetstar, Scoot and AirAsia.

Cheapest Time to Visit Jakarta

When planning a flight to Jakarta, timing is crucial to make the most of your trip without spending a fortune. Weather-wise, t best time to visit Jakarta is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During these months, the weather is a bit cooler and less humid, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. But, better weather can come at a higher price for flights and accommodation.

However, if you don't mind the occasional rain, visiting during the wet season (October to May) can also be rewarding, as the city is less crowded, and you might find better deals on both airfares and hotels.

Visa requirements for Indonesia

Australians do require a visa to visit Indonesia, but luckily this can be easily sorted on arrival at the airport in Jakarta. It’s currently about AU$50 (IDR500,000). The line ups can be a bit long sometimes, so we’ve made things easier for travellers with a fuss-free visa option for Australians.