Strong Earthquake in Flores, but Bali Remains Safe — What Travelers Need to Know

Last Saturday morning, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. As news of the disaster broke, many began to worry — would Bali be affected too? Should travelers currently on vacation change their plans?

The straightforward answer: Bali is safe.

What Happened in Flores?

According to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Authority, the earthquake claimed 57 lives across five districts on Flores Island. Manggarai district reported 21 fatalities, East Manggarai had 17, and the remaining three were in Sikka, West Manggarai, and Ngada districts.

Two days later (Monday), the island was hit again by a 5.9-magnitude aftershock. This made rescue efforts even more challenging — over 5,000 people were forced to evacuate to tent shelters, and some communities faced shortages of drinking water.

But here’s an important geographical fact: Flores Island is nearly 500 kilometers from Bali. While the earthquake was powerful, the distance itself acts as a natural buffer.

Is the Airport Operational? Will Flights Be Canceled?

Five airports were indeed affected by the earthquake, including Labuan Bajo Airport in Flores. But here’s an important distinction: the damage was to the terminal buildings, while the runways remained intact.

Shortly after the earthquake, an official spokesperson for Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport confirmed that flight operations in Bali were completely normal. In fact, on the day of the earthquake, flights between Bali and Flores operated as usual—nine departures and eight arrivals, with no cancellations or delays.

In the following days, authorities also clearly stated that all airports in East Nusa Tenggara province would continue normal operations with no closures.

So if you’re already in Bali or planning a trip there, there’s absolutely no need to worry about transportation.

What about the tsunami?

A tsunami warning was issued initially but was lifted shortly after. Indonesia’s meteorological agency monitored sea level changes and announced the all-clear at 7:30 AM local time, confirming no significant abnormal sea levels.

What should Bali travelers do?

First, Bali itself is safe. If you’re in Bali or planning a trip there, this earthquake doesn’t change Bali’s safety. Bali sits on a stable tectonic plate, far from the epicenter and outside the affected zone. You can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.

Second, if you’re planning a trip to Flores or Komodo National Park, you should pause for now. Although the airports are still operating, infrastructure in the disaster area is damaged and rescue efforts are ongoing. It’s wiser to wait until the situation fully stabilizes. If you have questions, just ask your travel agent or airline directly.

Third, travel insurance is absolutely essential. No matter where you go in Indonesia, comprehensive travel insurance covering natural disasters is a must. Also, save the phone number of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office or your home country’s relevant agency—they’re your fastest lifeline during major events.

While disaster news can certainly be unsettling, travelers to Bali don’t need to change their plans. Go with confidence when it’s time, and ask officials directly if any issues arise — that’s the smartest way to handle it.

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