Lion Air

Soaring across the vast Emerald of the Equator, Lion Air stands as a titan in Southeast Asian aviation, fundamentally transforming how people explore the Indonesian archipelago. As the country's largest private carrier, it has democratized air travel with its famous slogan, "We Make People Fly," making remote islands and bustling metropolises accessible to millions. With a dynamic approach to low-cost travel, this airline offers an extensive network that bridges the diverse cultures and landscapes of Indonesia and beyond.

Connecting the Archipelago and Beyond

Lion Air’s primary mission is to provide affordable connectivity across Indonesia’s thousands of islands. From its main hub in Jakarta, the airline operates high-frequency routes to major economic and tourism centers. Travelers can easily hop between key cities, with frequent services linking the capital to the bustling port city of Surabaya. For those seeking tropical escapes or cultural experiences, the airline offers robust connections between the holiday island of Denpasar and regional destinations like Makassar or Yogyakarta.

The airline also plays a crucial role in connecting Sumatra, offering vital links from Medan and Palembang to the capital. Furthermore, its network extends to industrial centers and emerging destinations, facilitating travel to places like Batam, Bandar Lampung, and the northern city of Manado.

Modern Fleet and Company Values

Lion Air prides itself on operating one of the youngest fleets in the region, comprised primarily of Boeing 737-800 and 737-900ER aircraft, along with Airbus A330-300s and A330-900neos for high-demand routes. Notably, the airline was the global launch customer for the Boeing 737-900ER, demonstrating its commitment to efficiency and capacity. Their business model focuses on cost leadership, allowing them to offer competitive fares without compromising on the essential connectivity that drives the Indonesian economy.

Safety and Achievements

In recent years, Lion Air has made significant investments in safety management systems and crew training to align with international standards. A major milestone in this journey was achieving registration with the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a globally recognized benchmark for airline safety management. This achievement underscores the carrier's dedication to operational excellence and passenger well-being as it continues to expand its footprint in the Asian aviation market.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates planning their journey with Lion Air, assistance is primarily available through the airline's global support channels. Since the carrier focuses its operations within Southeast Asia, direct local support infrastructure in the UAE is limited, and most inquiries regarding bookings or flight schedules are best handled via their central digital platforms or international contact center.

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.lionair.co.id
• Global Customer Service: +62 21 6379 8000 (International charges may apply)
• WhatsApp Support: +62 811 1938 0888 (Chat only)
• Email: customercare@lionairgroup.com
• Mobile App: Lion Air (Available on the App Store and Google Play Store)

Social Media

Stay updated with the latest news and travel advisories through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Lion Air Group
• Twitter (X): @LionAirID
• Instagram: @lionairgroup

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Currently, Lion Air does not maintain a dedicated public customer service office or walk-in ticketing counter in the United Arab Emirates. Travelers based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates are advised to use the online "Pre-Booked" services on the website or contact the 24-hour global call center for immediate assistance with their itineraries.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent matters, the airline's Global Contact Center in Jakarta operates 24 hours a day. It is recommended to have your booking reference number and flight details ready when calling to ensure a swift resolution.

Preparing for a flight involves more than just booking tickets; understanding the baggage rules is essential for a smooth journey. Lion Air provides clear guidelines to ensure passenger safety and comfort. Whether you are flying with a backpack for a weekend getaway or carrying heavy luggage for a long vacation, knowing the allowances beforehand can help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Passengers traveling on Lion Air are entitled to a complimentary cabin baggage allowance. This is perfect for keeping your essentials close at hand during the flight.

• Weight Limit: Each passenger (except infants) is allowed one piece of carry-on luggage weighing a maximum of 7 kg.
• Dimensions: The luggage dimensions must not exceed 40 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm.
• Personal Item: In addition to the main cabin bag, passengers may bring one small personal item, such as a laptop bag, a handbag, or a camera bag. This item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Limits

Lion Air typically offers a free checked baggage allowance included in most ticket fares, although "Basic" or "Promo" fares may have different conditions. It is highly recommended to check the specific details stated on your e-ticket.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance is usually 20 kg of checked baggage.
• Business Class: Passengers flying Business Class typically enjoy an allowance of up to 30 kg.
• Infants: Infants without a seat are generally not entitled to a free baggage allowance, though a stroller or pram can usually be checked in for free.

If you are connecting through major hubs like Jakarta, ensure your baggage is checked through to your final destination or be prepared to collect and re-check it if traveling on separate bookings.

Excess Baggage and Prepaid Options

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees will be charged per kilogram at the airport. These rates can be significantly higher than pre-booking. To save money, Lion Air offers a Prepaid Baggage service, which allows passengers to purchase extra weight allowances (in blocks of 5kg, 10kg, etc.) via the website or travel agent up to 6 hours before departure. This is often much more affordable than paying at the check-in counter.

Special Items: Sports and Music

Traveling with special equipment requires a bit of extra planning. Lion Air has specific handling procedures for non-standard items.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf clubs, surfboards, and bicycles are accepted but may incur a handling fee or count towards your total weight allowance depending on the route. Surfboards must be properly packaged in a protective bag with nose and tail protection. Bicycles must have handlebars turned and tires deflated.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments like violins can be brought into the cabin if they fit within the carry-on dimensions and weight limits. Larger instruments, such as guitars or cellos, must be checked as fragile baggage (hard case required) or can be transported in the cabin if an extra seat is purchased for them.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited or restricted.

• Power Banks: Loose batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin baggage only. They are strictly forbidden in checked luggage. Power banks must not exceed a capacity of 100Wh (approx. 20,000 mAh). Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval, and anything above 160Wh is prohibited.
• Strong Smelling Items: Fruits with strong odors, particularly Durian and Jackfruit, are not allowed in the cabin. They may be transported in checked baggage only if they are vacuum-sealed and packed in an airtight container to prevent any smell from escaping.
• Prohibited Goods: Explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and sharp objects (scissors, knives) are strictly banned from the cabin.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a hassle-free experience at the airport, consider these packing tips:

• Weigh at Home: Use a portable luggage scale to check your bag's weight before leaving for the airport to avoid surprise fees.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked luggage. Removing old barcode tags from previous trips helps prevent routing errors.
• Valuables: Never pack money, jewelry, important documents, or fragile electronics in your checked luggage. Always keep them in your carry-on.
• Secure Your Bag: Use TSA-approved locks to secure your luggage while allowing security personnel to inspect it if necessary without damaging the lock.

Traveling with pets on Lion Air (JT) requires careful planning, as the airline adheres to strict safety and hygiene protocols regarding live animals. While the airline accommodates the transport of pets, they are primarily accepted as special checked baggage rather than in the passenger cabin, ensuring a safe journey for all travelers across the Indonesian archipelago.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Lion Air generally does not permit live animals to fly in the passenger cabin. This policy ensures the comfort of all passengers and adheres to local regulations.

• Policy: Pets, including dogs, cats, and other small animals, are strictly prohibited from the cabin on standard commercial flights.
• Exceptions: There are typically no exceptions for emotional support animals in the cabin; they must travel in the cargo hold.
• Service Animals: Passengers traveling with service animals should contact the airline well in advance, as specific arrangements and approval are required.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

The primary method for transporting pets with Lion Air is as checked baggage (AVIH), placed in the ventilated and temperature-controlled compartment of the aircraft.

• Container Requirements: The pet must be housed in a sturdy, leak-proof, and properly ventilated fiberglass or hard plastic crate (IATA-compliant). Wire cages are generally not accepted.
• Weight and Size: The total weight of the animal plus the crate is charged as excess baggage. There is no fixed weight limit, but the crate must fit through the cargo door of the specific aircraft type (e.g., Boeing 737).
• Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Condition: The cage must be equipped with a secure lock and a water container accessible from the outside.

As Cargo

For unaccompanied pets, very large animals, or shipments requiring special handling, using the airline's cargo division is necessary.

• When Required: This option is mandatory if the pet is not traveling on the same flight as the owner or if the animal + crate exceeds the dimensions for standard checked baggage.
• Special Requirements: Requires booking through the cargo terminal rather than passenger check-in.
• Booking Procedure: Arrangements must be made at least 24 to 48 hours prior to departure through a cargo agent or Lion Air Cargo offices in cities like Jakarta.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process, you must present valid health documents. For domestic travel within Indonesia (e.g., from Medan to Surabaya), quarantine rules between islands are strictly enforced.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: A statement from a licensed veterinarian declaring the animal is fit for travel and free from contagious diseases (issued within 3-7 days of flight).
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other species-specific shots.
• Quarantine Permit (Surat Karantina): Essential for domestic travel in Indonesia; issued by the Agricultural Quarantine Agency at the airport of origin.
• Import/Export Permits: Required for international travel or entry into specific rabies-free zones (like Denpasar/Bali, which has very strict entry bans for pets).

Service Costs

Pets are not included in the free baggage allowance and are subject to special handling fees.

• In-Cabin Fee: Not applicable as cabin transport is not permitted.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Charged based on the total weight (animal + crate) multiplied by the applicable Excess Baggage rate per kilogram.
• Minimum Charge: Some routes may apply a minimum weight charge (e.g., a minimum fee equivalent to 5kg or 10kg of excess baggage).
• Note: Prices vary significantly depending on the route distance (e.g., flights to Manado will cost more than short hops).

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the travel crate several days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure; do not feed them right before flying to prevent motion sickness.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is hydrated, and freeze water in the crate's bowl so it melts slowly during the trip without spilling.
• Check-in Time: Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours early to complete the quarantine inspection and administrative procedures.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive breeds (e.g., Pitbulls, Rottweilers, Tosas) generally cannot be transported. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds like Pugs or Persians may be restricted due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited Animals: Protected species, wild animals, and livestock are not accepted as passenger baggage.
• Health Conditions: Pregnant females, nursing mothers, and unweaned puppies/kittens (under 3 months) are usually refused carriage.
• Route Restrictions: Certain destinations may have legal embargoes on animal entry (e.g., entry of dogs into Bali is often restricted by local government regulation).

Important: Pet travel regulations can change without notice. It is highly recommended to contact Lion Air directly or visit their customer service counters at Jakarta airport before booking to confirm the latest requirements for your specific route.

For travelers embarking on an extensive journey across the Indonesian archipelago, understanding the loyalty options of their chosen carrier can add significant value to the trip. While Lion Air operates primarily as a low-cost carrier with a focus on affordable fares, it rewards its frequent flyers through its dedicated loyalty program, widely known as the Lion Passport (or Lion Air Passport Club). This program is designed to enhance the travel experience for those who frequently hop between the thousands of islands that make up this vibrant nation.

Program Overview and Benefits

The Lion Passport program is tailored to recognize and reward loyal passengers of Lion Air and its subsidiary partners. Unlike the complex mileage systems of full-service global carriers, this program focuses on practical perks that make low-cost travel more convenient. Members can look forward to benefits that smooth out the journey at busy airports like Jakarta and Surabaya.

• Priority Services: Higher-tier members often enjoy priority check-in and boarding, allowing them to skip the long queues typically found at major domestic hubs.
• Extra Baggage Allowance: One of the most valuable perks for tourists is the potential for additional baggage weight, which is particularly useful when traveling with diving gear or souvenirs from islands like Denpasar (Bali).
• Lounge Access: Top-tier members may be granted access to select airport lounges within the Lion Air Group network, offering a quiet space to relax before a flight.

Earning and Redeeming Points

Passengers earn points based on the distance flown and the class of service booked. These points can be accumulated not just on Lion Air flights, but often across the broader Lion Air Group network, which includes Wings Air and Batik Air. Accumulated points can be redeemed for free flights or class upgrades, making it an attractive option for travelers planning a multi-leg itinerary, such as a tour from Medan in the west to the diving paradise of Manado in the north.

Alliance Status and Partners

It is important for international visitors, especially those from the United Arab Emirates, to note that Lion Air is not a member of the three major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam). This means you cannot earn or redeem miles from programs like Emirates Skywards or Etihad Guest on Lion Air flights. However, the carrier's strong domestic network and integration with its sister airlines, such as Batik Air (which offers a full-service experience), ensure comprehensive coverage and seamless connections throughout Southeast Asia.

How to Join

Joining the program is typically straightforward and can be done via the airline's official website or mobile app. For tourists planning a long vacation involving multiple domestic flights—for example, traveling from Yogyakarta to regional airports—signing up for a membership can be a smart move to unlock immediate travel conveniences and save on potential excess baggage costs.

As a dedicated low-cost carrier, Lion Air focuses on providing essential travel services that prioritize affordability and connectivity across the vast Indonesian archipelago. Passengers flying with this airline should expect a no-frills experience where they pay primarily for the seat and safety, with additional comforts available as optional add-ons. This model makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore multiple destinations, from the capital hub of Jakarta to remote island getaways.

Economy Class

The vast majority of Lion Air's flights operate with an all-Economy Class configuration. The cabins are designed to maximize capacity, allowing more people to fly at lower rates. The seats are typically upholstered in leather, which is standard for cleanliness and durability.

• Seat Configuration: On the Boeing 737 fleet (737-800 and 737-900ER), which forms the backbone of their operations, seats are arranged in a 3-3 layout. On the larger Airbus A330 aircraft, often used for high-demand routes like Medan to Jakarta or seasonal pilgrimage flights, the layout is generally 3-3-3.
• Legroom and Comfort: The seat pitch is standard for a low-cost airline, averaging around 29 inches. While compact, the seats usually feature a standard recline function. For taller passengers or those seeking extra comfort, seats in the emergency exit rows or the front row can often be reserved for an additional fee.

Business Class

While Lion Air is primarily known for its Economy service, a limited number of its aircraft may be equipped with a Business Class cabin, particularly on select Airbus A330 wide-body jets. However, availability is rare on standard domestic scheduled flights. Travelers desiring a full-service Business Class experience within the Lion Air Group are generally advised to book with their full-service sister airline, Batik Air.

In-Flight Dining

Lion Air operates a buy-on-board concept for food and beverages. Complimentary meals are not included in the ticket price.

• Lion Air Café: During the flight, cabin crew offer a selection of snacks, instant noodles, and beverages (coffee, tea, soft drinks, and mineral water) for purchase. Cash is the standard method of payment, though Indonesian Rupiah is the preferred currency.
• Pre-Booked Meals: For longer journeys, such as flights from Denpasar to western Indonesia, passengers may have the option to pre-book meals via the website or travel agent to ensure availability and better pricing.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep ticket prices low, Lion Air aircraft are not equipped with seatback monitors. However, the airline has modernized its in-flight entertainment options to suit the digital age.

• Lion Entertainment: On selected aircraft, the airline offers a wireless in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can connect their smartphones, tablets, or laptops to the onboard Wi-Fi network (where available) to stream movies, games, and magazines directly to their own devices. It is highly recommended to bring headphones and a power bank (cabin compliant) to enjoy this service.
• In-Flight Magazine: The airline provides a copy of Lionmag, an in-flight magazine featuring travel articles, lifestyle content, and information about destinations like Surabaya and Manado.

Special Services

Lion Air is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone and offers assistance for passengers with specific needs. These services must be requested in advance, ideally at the time of booking or at least 24 hours before departure.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available from the check-in counter to the boarding gate and upon arrival. Passengers unable to ascend stairs should notify the airline early, as not all domestic airports are equipped with aerobridges.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant passengers up to 28 weeks may travel with a doctor's certificate. Those between 28 and 35 weeks require a specific medical certificate issued within 7 days of travel and must sign a Release Form. Travel is generally not permitted after 35 weeks.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline offers services for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in until they are handed over to their designated guardian at the destination, whether it be Yogyakarta or another city. Specific age restrictions and fees apply.

As Indonesia's largest private carrier, Lion Air operates an extensive domestic network that serves as a lifeline for connectivity across the archipelago. Centered around its primary hub in Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta International Airport), the airline facilitates seamless travel to major commercial centers, cultural hubs, and remote island destinations. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airline's frequent flight schedules ensure that the diverse regions of Indonesia are within easy reach.

Key Connections from the Capital

Jakarta serves as the main gateway for the airline's operations, with a high volume of incoming and outgoing traffic. Travelers can easily reach the capital from Sumatra's key cities, including Medan, Palembang, and Bandar Lampung. For those heading east, the airline offers direct services from Jakarta to major cities on other islands, such as Pontianak in West Kalimantan and the northern diving hub of Manado in North Sulawesi.

Hubs in Java and Bali

Beyond the capital, Surabaya acts as a significant secondary hub, particularly for travelers moving between Java and the eastern regions. Frequent flights connect Surabaya to destinations like Makassar, Balikpapan, and the gateway to Lombok, Praya. Meanwhile, the holiday island of Denpasar (Bali) is well-connected not only to Jakarta and Surabaya but also offers direct routes to the cultural heartland of Yogyakarta and the bustling port city of Makassar.

Regional Accessibility

The airline's network is designed to support high mobility between islands. Strategic routes link distinct regions, such as the service between Medan and the industrial island of Batam. In Sulawesi, Makassar serves as a pivotal transit point, receiving flights from various cities including Balikpapan and Yogyakarta. The network also supports economic activity in Kalimantan with routes connecting Banjarmasin to Surabaya and direct flights from Jakarta to Balikpapan.

Popular Domestic Routes

Based on flight frequency, the following routes represent some of the busiest connections operated by Lion Air, highlighting the most traveled corridors within Indonesia:

Flying with Lion Air is a practical and popular choice for travelers looking to navigate the vast Indonesian archipelago efficiently. With its primary operational hub in Jakarta, the airline provides extensive connectivity across the region. To help you get the most out of your journey, here are some practical tips for booking and managing your flights.

Timing Your Booking is crucial for securing the best fares. As a low-cost carrier, Lion Air’s ticket prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches. It is advisable to book your seats at least a few weeks in advance, especially for high-demand routes like the connection between Medan and the capital, or the busy corridor from Surabaya to Makassar. Avoid booking last minute during Indonesian public holidays or peak vacation seasons to steer clear of price surges.

To find the best Deals and Promotions, frequent travelers recommend subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their official social media accounts. They often release "promo fares" for specific periods. Being flexible with your travel dates can also lead to significant savings, particularly if you are planning a trip to leisure destinations like Denpasar in Bali. Checking fares for mid-week flights often yields cheaper results than weekend departures.

Online Check-in is a highly recommended feature to save time at the airport. The service typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Utilizing this feature is especially helpful if you are traveling with carry-on luggage only, allowing you to bypass long queues at the counters. Whether you are flying to Yogyakarta for a cultural tour or heading to Batam, having your boarding pass ready on your phone streamlines the process significantly.

For a more comfortable journey, consider Seat Selection during the booking process. While this usually comes with a small add-on fee, it allows you to secure a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easier mobility. If you require extra legroom, look for emergency exit row seats, which are often available for a surcharge. This is particularly worth considering for longer flights, such as those to Manado.

Finally, downloading the Mobile App adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to check flight status and manage your itinerary on the go. Additionally, investing in Travel Insurance is always a wise decision. It provides protection against unforeseen circumstances like flight delays or baggage issues, ensuring your trip to cities like Palembang or Bandar Lampung remains worry-free.

The story of Lion Air began in October 1999, when it was founded by brothers Rusdi and Kusnan Kirana with a vision to make air travel accessible to the general public in Indonesia. Operations officially commenced on June 30, 2000, marking the start of a new era in the country's aviation industry. The airline's inaugural flight took off from Jakarta to Pontianak using a leased Boeing 737-200, setting the stage for what would become a revolution in low-cost travel across Southeast Asia.

Rapid Expansion and Fleet Modernization

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, the carrier experienced exponential growth, driven by a strategy to connect the disparate islands of the archipelago. To support this expansion, the airline made headlines globally with record-breaking aircraft orders. It notably became the launch customer for the Boeing 737-900ER, receiving the very first aircraft of this type in 2007. This aggressive fleet modernization allowed the airline to increase frequency on high-demand routes, such as those to Surabaya and Medan, while keeping operational costs low.

Building an Aviation Group

As the airline solidified its position as the market leader in Indonesia, it evolved into the Lion Air Group. This strategic move involved the establishment and acquisition of subsidiary airlines to cater to different market segments. Wings Air was developed to serve smaller, remote airports with propeller aircraft, acting as a feeder to the main jet hubs. Later, the group launched Batik Air to compete in the full-service sector, offering premium amenities on routes to major cities like Denpasar and Yogyakarta.

Commitment to Safety and Standards

In recent years, the airline has focused heavily on improving its operational standards and safety protocols. A significant historical milestone was achieved when Lion Air successfully obtained the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registration. This international recognition marked a turning point in the airline's history, demonstrating its dedication to aligning with global safety practices while continuing to serve millions of passengers annually.