Virgin Australia is set to become the nation’s only carrier to operate international flights from Canberra with the launch of direct flights to Bali, Indonesia on June 22, 2026.

The new route will add more than 40,000 seats each year between the nation’s capital and Denpasar and will operate three return services per week and complement the airline’s other direct services between Bali and Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Virgin Australia will operate its Boeing 737-800 aircraft on the route, with three seating options including Business, Economy and Economy X – the airline’s extra legroom seating which provides guests with an enhanced level of comfort and pre-boarding perks.

Virgin Australia Chief Executive Officer, Dave Emerson, said the new service is a significant win for the ACT, strengthening the territory’s international connectivity.

“This is the first time in the history of the company that we will operate internationally from the capital, marking an important milestone in our broader network expansion story,” he said.

“Virgin Australia will be the only Australia-based airline operating internationally out of Canberra, and the only carrier on this new route.

“As we continue to grow our network, we’re focused on offering greater choice and seamless connectivity for our guests.

“The schedule has been designed with convenience in mind, featuring afternoon departures from Canberra and overnight returns from Bali.

“Indonesia has now overtaken New Zealand as one of Australia’s most popular international travel destinations.

“Last year, we carried more than half a million guests between Australia and Bali, and it’s great to see demand for the destination continue to grow.”

The new service coincides with the airline boosting capacity into Canberra this week, through upsizing its aircraft on the Brisbane-Canberra route from F100 aircraft operated by Alliance Airlines, to 737s operated by Virgin Australia.

Canberra Airport CEO, Stephen Byron said the launch of direct flights from Canberra to Bali is a significant milestone for Canberra Airport.

“Bali is one of Australia’s most popular international holiday destinations, and we know this service will be warmly welcomed by travellers across the region,” he said.

“We’re delighted to be expanding our network with Virgin Australia and introducing Virgin Australia’s first international service from Canberra, with hopes that this marks the start of further international growth with Virgin Australia.”

The new route will operate seasonally from April to January, to align with market demand, with the potential to increase frequency during peak travel periods.