Written by Finn
The seat and the route
Bali (DPS) to Melbourne (MEL). Seat 29C on a Boeing 737 MAX.
5 hours 40 minutes.
Is there a loyalty scheme?
Through Batik Air Club, travellers can earn Batik Air Club Points and work their way from the free Silver membership level to Gold or Platinum tier, with perks ranging from members-only discounts to complimentary checked baggage, priority boarding and check-in, and more.
How was the airport experience?
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) can be busy at the best of times, but the Batik Air check-in desk was pleasantly quiet, located in one of the more secluded areas of the bustling hub. Check-in itself was simple, smooth and courteous, and while security can be a bit of a bottleneck, once you’re through the dining and shopping options across the departures terminal are varied and well-positioned, so you never felt too far from that last-minute purchase before boarding.
How was the cabin & seat?
The cabin was clean and well-maintained, with a comfortable seat pitch of 32” and adjustable headrest for added support. For flights aboard the fleet’s Airbus A330-300 or Boeing 737-8, travellers can opt to recline in style with Business Class seating that includes 45 inches of legroom, full-leather seating and in-flight entertainment.
How was the in-flight dining & drinks?
In order to streamline their service and minimise waste, Batik recommend pre-purchasing your meal ahead of departure (though sales are of course available aboard). The menu features a wide array of Malaysian bites, from nasi lemak ayam (coconut rice with chicken) to vegan-friendly idli with sambhar (spiced lentil and vegetable stew), alongside familiar snacks and drinks to keep you going.
What was the service like?
From check-in to disembarkation, the crew were consistently patient and professional. Polite interactions always make for a much smoother travelling experience, and the Batik team helped ensure the journey was an easy one. Travelling on a red-eye flight can be draining, but the cabin service was light and the crew respectfully quiet so passengers could try to get a bit of shut-eye. The upside to the early arrival was a much quicker and smoother airport experience before the morning rush, with a full day ahead once we’d landed back in Melbourne.
Why it’s worth it
Running 1,400 flights per week, including frequent, direct routes to Bali from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth – along with direct flights to Kuala Lumpur from Sydney and Perth – Batik offers comfortable and reliable service at a budget-conscious price point. For a fast-growing Malaysian air carrier servicing one of Australia’s most popular flight paths, the value here is undeniable.
Discover Bali
The writer was a guest of Batik Air and InJourney.
