Direct Flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo: No More Transit!

Have you been dreaming of exploring Komodo National Park, but unsure how to get Komodo Island from Kupang without long detours? You’re not alone. Many travelers have faced the same challenge, until now. Starting July 20, 2025, a brand new direct flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo will make your journey smoother, faster, and far more convenient. With daily departures and a short travel time of under two hours, this new route is set to change the way people experience one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking destinations.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the flight schedule, pricing, what to expect when you land, and why this connection is a game-changer for anyone planning a trip to Komodo.

New Direct Flight Route from Kupang to Labuan Bajo (and Return)

The long wait is over for travelers seeking a direct, no-hassle connection between Kupang and Labuan Bajo. Starting 20 July 2025, a new daily flight route will link these two popular destinations in East Nusa Tenggara. This direct connection offers a faster, more efficient way to reach the gateway of Komodo National Park without unnecessary transits or delays.

Here are the details you need to know:

Flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo – IW 1925

This is the morning flight that takes you straight to the heart of Komodo.

• Route: El Tari Kupang Airport (KOE) → Komodo International Airport (LBJ)
• Departure Time: 07.20 WITA
• Arrival Time: 09.05 WITA
• Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Frequency: Operates every day
• Ticket Price: Starting from IDR 1.768.700 per person

This flight departs early enough in the day to give you plenty of time to settle in and start exploring as soon as you land. Whether you’re heading straight to a boat tour, a resort, or just taking time to enjoy the town, you’ll arrive before mid-morning—perfect for a full day of adventure.

Return Flight from Labuan Bajo to Kupang – IW 1924

Heading back to Kupang is just as easy, with another direct flight scheduled every day.

• Route: Komodo International Airport (LBJ) → El Tari Kupang Airport (KOE)
• Departure Time: 12.45 WITA
• Arrival Time: 14.20 WITA
• Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
• Frequency: Operates daily

This midday return flight gives travelers enough time to enjoy a relaxed morning in Labuan Bajo before heading to the airport. It’s ideal for those wrapping up a trip and looking for a smooth journey home. 

With daily service in both directions, this direct flight offers a whole new level of convenience for anyone planning a trip to or from Komodo. Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or a special occasion, this connection gives you the freedom to build an itinerary that works for your schedule, without wasting time on detours.

Why the Direct Flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo Changes Everything

Before this direct connection, flying from Kupang to Labuan Bajo often meant dealing with inconvenient routes. Sometimes transiting through Denpasar, Ende, or other regional airports. What should have been a quick journey frequently turned into a long, fragmented travel day. For many travelers, this was a major hurdle in planning a trip to Komodo National Park.

Now, with the launch of a daily direct flight starting 20 July 2025, everything is about to change. Here’s why this route is a true game-changer for both local and international travelers:

• Time-Saving Convenience
  With a flight duration of just under two hours, you can now land in Labuan Bajo early in the day and begin exploring immediately. No need to waste valuable time in transit. especially helpful if you’re planning a short trip or trying to make the most of a weekend getaway.
• No More Unnecessary Stopovers
  The direct route eliminates the need to fly through other islands, saving not only time but also money. Travelers used to lose half a day or more just getting to Komodo Island. Now, you can fly straight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo without changing planes or waiting in transit lounges.
• More Itinerary Flexibility
  Daily departures in both directions offer full control over your travel schedule. Whether you’re planning a quick 3-day escape or a longer island-hopping adventure, this route gives you the freedom to customize your itinerary without being restricted by limited flight options.
• Ideal for East Nusa Tenggara Locals and Expats
  Kupang is a key hub in eastern Indonesia, not just for tourists, but also for locals, expats, and business travelers. This flight offers a faster, more direct link to Labuan Bajo for people living and working in the region, opening up easier access to Flores and the Komodo islands.
• Streamlined Access for International Visitors
  For travelers connecting through Kupang, especially those coming from Timor Leste or eastern Australia, this route simplifies everything. No more detours through Bali or Jakarta just to reach Komodo. You can now hop on a direct morning flight and arrive in Labuan Bajo before breakfast.
• Perfect for Short Getaways
  This route makes quick vacations realistic. You can now leave Kupang early, explore Komodo National Park, and return after a few days without exhausting travel time. It’s the perfect solution for those who want an epic escape without a long-haul commitment.

What to Expect When You Land in Labuan Bajo from Kupang

So, you’ve boarded the early morning flight from Kupang, touched down in Labuan Bajo before 9:30 AM, and stepped out into warm tropical air with the day still ahead of you. What can you do next? Labuan Bajo isn’t just a gateway, it’s a destination in itself. From its stunning harbor views to easy access to Komodo National Park, here’s what awaits you right after landing:

Explore Komodo National Park

Once you arrive in Labuan Bajo, one of the best ways to experience the region is by joining a Komodo Island tour package, a curated journey that takes you through the highlights of Komodo National Park with comfort and style. The park is home to incredible landscapes, rare wildlife, and world-class snorkeling and diving spots, all of which are best accessed by boat.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, there are several tour options available to match your needs and schedule:

• Open Trip Komodo: Ideal for travelers who want to share the experience with others, this group tour runs regularly and is a cost-efficient way to explore multiple islands in a single trip.
• Open Trip Komodo Weekdays: For those who prefer to avoid the crowds, this option offers the same itinerary as a regular open trip but runs during weekdays—perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe.
• Private Trip Komodo: If you’re after exclusivity, privacy, and a more flexible itinerary, a private boat tour is the best way to go. You can customize your stops, enjoy premium onboard service, and have the entire experience to yourself or your group.

Joining one of these Komodo Island Tours by Komodo Luxury gives you seamless access to the national park’s most iconic spots, all while ensuring safety, convenience, and expert guidance along the way.

Exclusive Land Accommodations

After landing in Labuan Bajo, finding the right place to stay is easy, especially if you’re looking for something beyond the ordinary. The town offers a wide variety of accommodations, from boutique cliffside hotels to beachfront villas with private pools. Whether you’re after simplicity or sophistication, there’s something here for every travel style.

For those who prioritize comfort, privacy, and seamless service, Komodo Luxury also offers a curated luxury accommodation service. This personalized service helps you find and book premium stays that suit your preferences, whether it’s a villa with ocean views, a private resort hideaway, or a stylish modern suite near the harbor. With options handpicked for their design, location, and hospitality standards, Komodo Luxury ensures your stay on land is just as exceptional as your journey through the islands. Many of these accommodations are located just minutes from the airport or port, making it easy to check in and unwind shortly after arrival.

Read more: 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Labuan Bajo: A Luxurious Stay at the Gateway to Komodo National Park

Discover Labuan Bajo’s Overland Attractions

Labuan Bajo’s mainland is full of surprises, it offers hidden gems worth exploring. If you have extra time before or after your Komodo tour, exploring these overland gems can give you a more well-rounded experience of Flores. From lush jungle canyons to the cultural richness of the Manggarai people, the inland journey offers just as much magic as the sea.

To ensure your comfort along the way, Komodo Luxury offers a dedicated luxury transport service, featuring private drivers, local guides, and stylish vehicles, including the iconic Mini Cooper for those who love to travel in style. Whether you’re navigating scenic coastal roads or heading into the highlands, this service lets you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

What You Should Prepare for Your Trip from Kupang

A smooth journey starts with the right preparation. If you’re flying from Kupang to Komodo Island, here are a few essential things you’ll want to keep in mind, so you can fully enjoy your adventure the moment you land:

• Book Your Flight in Advance
  Since the direct flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo is a new and highly anticipated route, demand may be high. Especially during weekends and holiday seasons. Booking early ensures you get your preferred schedule and better ticket prices.
• Choose a Trusted Tour Operator
  To make your Kupang to Labuan Bajo trip smooth and stress-free, it’s important to book with a trusted tour operator. Komodo Luxury offers a complete range of services in one place. From airport transfers and luxury accommodations to curated Komodo Island tours and private boat charters. So you don’t have to worry about juggling multiple bookings or dealing with unexpected issues along the way.
• Prepare Comfortable and Practical Clothing
  The climate in Komodo is tropical and sunny most of the year. Pack light, breathable clothes, swimwear, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. If you’re planning to hike, don’t forget sturdy shoes and a light jacket for early mornings.
• Protect Yourself from the Sun
  The sun in Labuan Bajo and around Komodo National Park can be intense. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and after-sun lotion to keep your skin protected throughout the trip.
• Don’t Forget Travel Essentials
  Make sure to bring your ID or passport (especially if you’re a foreign traveler connecting from Timor Leste or abroad), e-tickets, and travel insurance documents. It’s also handy to carry some cash, as not all places in Flores accept cards.
• Bring a Camera or Drone
  You’re going to one of the most photogenic destinations in Indonesia. From Padar Island’s iconic hills to Komodo’s pink beaches and dramatic sunsets, you’ll want to capture every moment. Just be sure to check drone regulations beforehand.

Read more: Komodo Boat Tour: Complete Guide to Komodo National Park with KomodoLuxury

Looking Forward to the Direct Flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo

This new direct flight from Kupang to Labuan Bajo is more than just a transportation upgrade, it’s a gateway to one of Indonesia’s most iconic destinations. Starting July 20, 2025, daily departures make it easier than ever for travelers from Kupang, Timor Leste, and beyond to explore the raw beauty of Komodo National Park without long detours or complicated transit routes.

Whether you’re planning a short escape, a honeymoon, or a once-in-a-lifetime island-hopping experience, this direct connection brings you closer to dramatic landscapes, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable cultural encounters. And with a wide range of services, from luxury Komodo Island Tour to curated luxury accommodation Komodo and luxury transport Komodo, Komodo Luxury is ready to make every detail of your journey seamless, stylish, and fully personalized.

So if Komodo has always been on your list, now is the perfect time to go. With this new flight and the right travel partner, your trip from Kupang to Labuan Bajo Komodo can be as effortless as it is extraordinary.