In a big move for the airline and the nation’s capital, Virgin Australia has revealed it will launch new direct flights between Canberra and holiday hotspot Bali.
Commencing 22 June 2026, the new nonstop service marks the first time Virgin Australia has operated international flights out of Canberra.
The new service, flying three times per week (Monday, Wednesday, Saturday) between April and January, adds more than 40,000 seats annually on the route.
It also joins the carrier’s other services to Bali from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Utilising its B737-800 aircraft on the route, Virgin will offer three classes of travel: Business, Economy, and Economy X, which features extra legroom and pre-boarding perks. Flights will depart Canberra in the afternoon, with red-eye return flights.
“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,” Virgin Australia CEO Dave Emerson 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.”
Emerson said that the airline carried more than half a million guests between Australia and Bali in 2025, “and it’s great to see demand for the destination continue to grow”.
“Indonesia has now overtaken New Zealand as one of Australia’s most popular international travel destinations,” he added.
To mark the launch, Virgin is offering return fares from $399 in Economy Lite, from $499 in Economy Choice and from $1,449 in Business until 11.59pm on 3 February 2026 (AEDT).
“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,” Canberra Airport CEO Stephen Byron remarked.
“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.
This week, Virgin Australia also boosted its Canberra-Brisbane route, upgauging from the F100 aircraft (operated by Alliance Airlines) to VA’s B737s.
Virgin has just experienced one of its biggest holiday seasons yet, in which it added major capacity across its network.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Another international Canberra route matters. Direct Bali flights unlock new catchments, simplify itineraries and give travel advisors a fresh sell beyond Sydney, proving secondary gateways can drive real demand.
