Plans for North Bali’s new international airport have begun to take shape, with its design promising to be one of the most distinctive in Indonesia. The North Bali International Airport (NBIA) will feature an architectural concept inspired by the form of a turtle’s shell, blending mythological meaning with modern infrastructure.
According to the developer, the design takes cues from the Balinese legend of Bedawang Nala, the cosmic turtle believed to uphold the world of humans, known as Bhurloka, alongside two guardian dragons, Anantabhoga and Basuki. This mythological influence will be reflected in the airport’s curves, geometric contours, and flowing organic shapes that dominate both the exterior structure and the interior layout.
Beyond its striking appearance, the design embodies Bali’s Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes harmony among God, people, and nature. This principle is expressed through open and green spatial arrangements, known as natah, creating a natural balance within the airport environment. Inside, travelers will experience a thoughtful blend of Balinese culture, tropical ambiance, and modern comfort — an atmosphere meant to welcome visitors with the island’s signature warmth.
North Bali itself is rich in cultural traditions and fertile farmland. Within the proposed project area lie sacred temples, traditional villages, and customary lands, all considered deeply meaningful to local communities. For this reason, preserving these sites has become a major concern in the airport’s planning process.
One alternative that has emerged is the possibility of building the North Bali International Airport offshore. As explained by CROSS Celesta Nusa Penida, an offshore site could help protect religious sites, farmlands, and local villages from disruption. It would also bypass the complex process of land acquisition, which often poses delays to large infrastructure projects.
However, this alternative carries environmental risks. Experts warn that offshore construction could endanger marine biodiversity, accelerate coastal erosion, and weaken environmental resilience along Bali’s northern coast.
The North Bali Airport project continues to face both environmental and social challenges. With policies still under review and strong public scrutiny, the project’s progress — including permits and development stages — remains under close watch by multiple stakeholders.
“We currently have no information and are not following developments regarding the North Bali Airport project,” said Made Krisna Dinata, Executive Director of the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (WALHI) Bali, as quoted by detikTravel.
Read also: North Bali Airport Still Lacks Clear Location
Although the airport has been listed in Indonesia’s National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025–2029, its precise location remains undecided. The government previously considered building it in Kubutambahan District, after an earlier proposal in Sumberklampok Traditional Village, Gerokgak.
For now, the vision of a turtle-inspired airport in North Bali captures both imagination and controversy — a project that could transform the region’s future while testing how far innovation can go without compromising culture and nature.
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