Wings Air

Travelling across the multifaceted Indonesian archipelago is a breathtaking kaleidoscope of experiences, where every island possesses a unique character. Wings Air (IATA code: IW) acts as the primary link in this region, transforming complex routes into comfortable short flights. Specialising in regional flights, the carrier connects major international hubs with small airports in remote and picturesque corners of the country, making even the most hidden gems of the tropics accessible. For tourists, this is an opportunity to see the real Indonesia, moving easily between islands on the reliable wings of this airline.

Key Features and Flight Geography

Wings Air is a subsidiary of the major holding Lion Air Group and performs the crucial function of an "air bridge" between islands. The main feature of the company's fleet is the use of ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft. These aircraft are ideally suited for the short runways of small regional airports where large jet liners cannot land. Thanks to this, travellers can reach exotic locations without long ferry crossings.

The carrier's route network is impressive in its coverage. One of the most popular directions is the route between the island of Bali (Denpasar) and the island of Lombok (Praya), allowing tourists to quickly switch from the noisy party scene to a tranquil beach holiday. The airline also actively flies to Labuan Bajo — the gateway to the famous Komodo National Park.

Besides tourist routes, Wings Air provides vital connections within large islands such as Kalimantan and Sulawesi. Regular flights connect Balikpapan with neighbouring cities, while Makassar serves as a starting point for flights deeper into the region. Safety and punctuality are the company's priorities, confirmed by certification to international standards and a high frequency of flights, allowing passengers to flexibly plan their connections.

Wings Air is part of the major Indonesian holding Lion Air Group, so primary passenger service is conducted through the group's unified communication channels. For travellers, this means convenient access to 24/7 support and the ability to resolve booking issues through centralised systems.

Official Website

All current information on flights, baggage regulations, and online check-in can be found on the holding's official portal: www.lionair.co.id. This site is the main platform for purchasing tickets for Wings Air flights.

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.lionair.co.id
• Customer Support (WhatsApp): +62 811-1938-0888 (Chatbot, available for text messages)
• Booking and Enquiries (Phone): (+6221) 6379 8000 (International format)
• Email: customercare@lionairgroup.com
• Mobile App: Lion Air (available on App Store and Google Play) — allows management of Wings Air bookings.

Social Media

You can follow news, promotions, and schedule changes through the official Lion Air Group accounts:

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

Local Offices

The airline's headquarters is located in Jakarta (Lion Air Tower). For immediate resolution of issues on the ground, passengers can approach Lion Air Group check-in and ticketing counters, which are located at almost all airports in the route network. Special attention is paid to service in key transport hubs, such as the base city of Praya (Lombok).

Emergency Support

The Lion Air Group contact centre operates 24/7, providing assistance to passengers in case of flight delays or cancellations. For the quickest response, it is recommended to use the WhatsApp chat or call the numbers listed above.

Please note: contact details may change. Before travelling, we strongly recommend checking the current phone numbers on the airline's official website.

Baggage Rules: What You Need to Know Before Flying

Since Wings Air (IW) operates flights primarily on ATR 72 turboprop aircraft, baggage rules here are somewhat stricter than on large international liners. The limited space in the cabin and cargo holds requires passengers to be attentive to the weight and dimensions of their belongings. To ensure your island-hopping journey goes smoothly, we recommend familiarising yourself with current allowances in advance.

Cabin Baggage

Uniform standards for carry-on items apply to all service classes. Each passenger is entitled to bring one piece of cabin baggage on board free of charge.

• Weight: The maximum allowable weight is 7 kg.
• Dimensions: Bag dimensions must not exceed 35 x 30 x 20 cm. This is due to the compact size of the overhead bins in ATR aircraft.
• Personal Items: Additionally, one small personal item is permitted, such as a handbag, laptop bag, camera, or binoculars, which must fit freely under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage

Wings Air's policy regarding checked baggage often depends on the fare of the purchased ticket. Being part of the Lion Air Group and operating in the Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) segment, the airline often offers fares without included baggage or with a minimal allowance.

• Free Allowance: On many promo fares, free baggage may be absent (0 kg) or set at 10 kg. Be sure to check the conditions of your fare when booking.
• Baggage Pooling: If you are flying as a group or family, pooling baggage weight is usually not permitted; each bag is registered individually to a passenger unless specific fare rules state otherwise.
• Pre-paid Baggage: If you need to transport more items, it is strongly recommended to purchase extra baggage allowance ("Pre-paid Baggage") in advance via the website or app. Buying baggage at the airport before departure will be significantly more expensive.

Excess Baggage and Rates

For every kilogram over the established limit, a fee is charged according to the departure airport's rates. Given the regional nature of flights, the cost of excess weight can be substantial. If you plan to bring many souvenirs from places like Denpasar or Surabaya, it is better to pay for the extra kilograms at least 6 hours before departure.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Indonesia is a paradise for surfers and divers, so transporting sports equipment is a popular service. However, special rules apply here:

• Surfboards and Bicycles: Transporting bulky sports equipment is charged separately and is not included in the free baggage allowance. Given the small size of ATR cargo hatches, the amount of bulky cargo accepted on board is limited. We recommend notifying the airline in advance, especially if you are flying to surf in Praya (Lombok) or Bima.
• Diving Equipment: Diving tanks must be empty, and valves open. This is relevant for flights to popular dive spots, for example, to Labuan Bajo.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin if they do not exceed cabin baggage dimensions. For cellos or guitars, purchasing an extra seat in the cabin (CBBG) may be required.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety reasons, Wings Air strictly monitors baggage contents. The following rules are critical:

Power Banks and Lithium Batteries:

• It is strictly forbidden to place them in checked baggage. They must be in cabin baggage only.
• Devices with a capacity of no more than 20,000 mAh (100 Wh) are permitted. Batteries with a larger capacity may require special permission or be prohibited for transport.

Durian and Strong-Smelling Foods:

• Transporting fresh durian is prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage due to the strong odour which is difficult to remove.
• Seafood and meat must be hermetically packed in a styrofoam box and checked in.

Tips for Efficient Packing

When travelling on small Wings Air aircraft, try to use soft travel bags or backpacks instead of hard suitcases — they are easier to fit into the limited space of the cargo holds. Always take all valuables, documents, money, and electronics with you into the cabin. If your itinerary includes a transfer to flights of other airlines, remember that baggage is generally not checked through to the final destination automatically unless it is a single Lion Air Group ticket.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Wings Air (IW), being part of the Lion Air Group, adheres to strict regulations regarding the transport of live animals. Travellers should take into account that the carrier's policy is dictated not only by international safety standards but also by the technical features of the fleet, consisting of compact ATR 72 turboprops. Before booking tickets, it is necessary to carefully study the available transport methods, as they differ from the rules of many European airlines.

Cabin Restrictions

It is important to know that Wings Air generally does not allow the transport of pets (cats, dogs, birds, and other animals) in the aircraft cabin as hand luggage. This rule applies to the vast majority of flights and is due to limited space inside the cabin of regional liners.

Exceptions may only be made for specially trained service dogs (e.g., guide dogs) accompanying passengers with disabilities, although even in this case, prior approval and a complete set of documents are required.

Available Transport Methods

To travel with a pet, the airline offers two main options ensuring the animal's safety during the flight:

1. As Checked Baggage (AVIH)

The animal is accepted for transport in a special heated and ventilated section of the cargo hold. Processing takes place at the check-in counter at the airport.

• Container: Pets must be in rigid containers (cages) complying with IATA standards. Soft carriers are not allowed. The cage must be spacious enough for the animal to stand, lie down, and turn around, and must have a secure lock and a leak-proof bottom.
• Restrictions: Only domestic cats and dogs are accepted. Transport of other animal species requires special approval.

2. As Cargo

If the weight of the animal together with the cage exceeds the limits for checked baggage (usually over 32 kg) or if transport in the baggage hold is impossible for technical reasons, the pet is processed through the cargo terminal (often via the Lion Parcel division).

• Features: The animal needs to be dropped off several hours before departure. This is the safest method for large dogs, as cargo holds have enhanced environmental control conditions.

Documents and Quarantine Requirements

Indonesia is a country with a specific quarantine regime between islands. The movement of animals, for example, on the popular route between the cities of Denpasar (Bali) and Praya (Lombok), is strictly controlled by government services. Absence of one of the documents may lead to refusal of carriage.

The mandatory document package includes:

• Veterinary Passport: With current health records.
• Rabies Vaccination: The vaccination must be administered no less than 30 days and no more than 1 year before the departure date.
• Health Certificate: A certificate from a veterinarian confirming that the animal is healthy and fit to fly (issued 3-5 days before the flight).
• Surat Karantina (Quarantine Permit): Permission for export from the point of origin and import into the destination. Issued at Quarantine Service offices (Balai Karantina Pertanian), which are found at departure airports.

Cost and Payment

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance. The service is always paid for additionally.

• Cost Calculation: Payment is made based on the total weight (animal + cage) according to excess baggage rates.
• Minimum Weight: Even if the pet weighs very little, the airline may apply a minimum billable weight (e.g., payment as for 5 or 10 kg of baggage) depending on current tariff rules.

Important Recommendations

Wings Air reserves the right to refuse transport if the animal appears sick, aggressive, or if the container does not meet safety requirements. There are also restrictions on transporting brachycephalic dog breeds (snub-nosed) due to the risk of breathing problems at altitude.

We strongly recommend contacting the Lion Air Group call centre or visiting a sales office at least 24-48 hours before departure to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet on the specific aircraft type.

Loyalty Programme and Lion Air Group Ecosystem Benefits

Wings Air (IW) positions itself as an affordable regional low-cost carrier, whose main task is to ensure transport accessibility to even the most remote corners of Indonesia. Unlike full-service airlines, Wings Air does not develop its own complex system of status tiers with elite privileges. Instead of accumulating miles, the carrier focuses on offering the lowest possible fares for inter-island flights.

However, Wings Air passengers receive significant benefits thanks to the company's affiliation with the region's largest aviation holding — Lion Air Group.

Unified Digital Environment

To manage their journeys, Wings Air clients can use the holding's unified ecosystem. This simplifies the travel planning process, especially if the route includes transfers to partner airline flights.

• Lion Air Mobile App: Passengers can use the official Lion Air app to purchase tickets for Wings Air flights, check in online, and manage bookings. There is no need to download a separate app for regional flights.
• Personal Account: Registering in the Lion Air Group system allows you to save passport details and companion information for quick ticket issuance in the future.

Integration with Batik Miles

Although Wings Air operates on a low-cost model and generally does not award miles for its flights, the most active travellers using services of different group airlines can participate in the loyalty programme of the holding's premium carrier — Batik Air.

The Batik Miles programme is primarily oriented towards business and economy class passengers of Batik Air. However, being part of the same group, passengers can often use a single ID when booking complex itineraries. It is important to consider that direct Wings Air flights (for example, on short routes like Praya — Bima) usually do not earn bonus points, as the fares are promotional offers from the start.

"Internal Alliance" Benefits

The main bonus for Wings Air passengers is the seamless connection with the route network of partners: Lion Air, Batik Air, and Super Air Jet. This allows travellers to issue single tickets from major metropolises to small regional airports.

Thanks to this "internal alliance", tourists can easily plan complex routes throughout Indonesia. For example:

• Arrive by international flight in Denpasar (Bali) and reach the city of Tambolaka with one transfer.
• Make a journey from the island of Kalimantan, flying from Pontianak to Ketapang.
• Explore the eastern part of the archipelago using the popular route Labuan Bajo — Kupang.
• Organise a business trip from Banjarmasin to Balikpapan with a guaranteed connection.

Thus, the loyalty of Wings Air passengers is rewarded not with status cards, but with the ability to flexibly and inexpensively build routes of any complexity within the vast Lion Air Group network.

Classes of Service and Onboard Comfort

Wings Air (IW) operates in the regional Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) segment, specialising in short flights between the islands of Indonesia. Onboard service is organised to ensure travel efficiency and affordability while maintaining necessary safety and comfort standards for flights typically lasting no more than an hour.

Class of Service

The airline's fleet consists exclusively of ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft, which feature a single-class layout. All passenger seats fall under the Economy Class category. Business Class and First Class are not provided on Wings Air flights. This is standard practice for "air shuttles" connecting hubs like Praya with small island airports.

Seat Configuration

Despite the lack of premium classes, the cabin of Wings Air aircraft has a significant advantage over large liners — the absence of a middle seat. The seating arrangement is configured as 2x2 (two seats on the left and two on the right of the aisle).

• Personal Space: Every passenger is guaranteed a seat either by the window or by the aisle. This is particularly appreciated by couples and travellers wishing to avoid the cramping of the "middle seat".
• Seat Features: The ATR 72-600 series aircraft are equipped with modern slim-profile seats with leather upholstery. Seat width is about 17 inches (43 cm), and the seat pitch is approximately 29-30 inches.
• Overhead Bins: It is worth noting that overhead bins in ATR aircraft are more compact than standard ones, so cabin baggage must strictly comply with established dimensions.

Food and Beverages

Since Wings Air is a low-cost carrier and the duration of most flights is between 30 to 60 minutes, full hot meals are not included in the ticket price. However, passengers will not go hungry:

• Wings Food: A menu featuring snacks, pastries, and light bites, as well as refreshments and hot beverages, is offered on board for an additional fee.
• Pre-order: On some routes, a meal pre-order option is available when purchasing tickets online.

Tip: If you are taking a short flight, for example, from Denpasar to Tambolaka, it is recommended to carry a bottle of water (purchased in the secure area of the airport) and a light snack, as service on short segments may be limited by time.

In-flight Entertainment

Aircraft are not equipped with individual multimedia system monitors (IFE) or Wi-Fi. The main entertainment on Wings Air flights is rightfully considered the view from the window. Flights take place at a relatively low altitude, allowing passengers to enjoy stunning panoramas of volcanoes, coral reefs, and tropical forests of Indonesia.

In the seat pocket in front, passengers can usually find the in-flight magazine Lionmag, published by the Lion Air Group, featuring articles on travel, culture, and lifestyle.

Special Services

Wings Air provides a necessary range of services for passengers with special needs, but these must be requested in advance (at least 24-48 hours before departure) via the call centre or sales offices.

• Passengers with Disabilities: Staff provide assistance with boarding and disembarking. It is important to remember that boarding an ATR aircraft is often done via built-in stairs rather than an aerobridge, so wheelchair passengers may require a special ambulift (not available at all airports).
• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): The airline provides an escort service for children travelling without adults, ensuring supervision from check-in to handover to the meeting party at the arrival airport, for example, in Kupang.
• Pregnant Women: A medical certificate (permission to fly) is required for late stages of pregnancy, along with completing a guarantee letter at the check-in counter.

The route network of Wings Air (IW) covers a vast territory of the Indonesian archipelago, providing vital communication between islands. The carrier's base airport and key transport hub is Praya (Lombok), from where regular flights are operated to many cities in the region. Below is a table of the airline's most popular destinations, based on flight frequency.

Useful Tips: How to Make Your Trip with Wings Air Perfect

Planning a trip around the islands of Indonesia requires special attention to detail, especially when it comes to regional flights. Wings Air (IW) is the key to the most beautiful but hard-to-reach corners of the country. To ensure your flight goes smoothly and your budget stays intact, we have gathered proven recommendations for travellers.

Best Time to Book

Ticket prices for Wings Air typically rise as the departure date approaches. The optimal time to purchase is 3–4 weeks before travel. This is particularly relevant for popular tourist routes, such as flights to Labuan Bajo or Lombok island (Praya).

Try to avoid booking during national holiday periods, especially during Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) and Christmas. Demand for domestic flights is colossal at these times, and tickets can cost several times more than usual. If your holiday falls during "high season", book seats 2–3 months in advance.

Finding Promotions and Special Offers

Since Wings Air is part of the Lion Air Group, all promotions are distributed centrally. To catch a low fare:

• Subscribe to the newsletter on the official Lion Air Group website.
• Follow the group's official pages on social media, where flash sales are often published.
• Look for package deals that include baggage, as buying a fare with baggage initially is often better value than paying for it later.

Check-in Nuances

Online Check-in (Web Check-in) is your best friend to avoid queues at the airport. It usually opens 24 hours and closes 4 hours before departure. You can do this via the website or mobile app.

Important Tip: Despite having an electronic boarding pass, in some small Indonesian airports (e.g., in Tambolaka or Bima), security staff may ask for a paper version. We recommend printing your boarding pass in advance or approaching the check-in counter to print it, even if you have no luggage.

Seat Selection Secrets

Flying on a turboprop ATR 72 has its peculiarities worth considering when choosing a seat:

• No Middle Seat: The 2x2 layout guarantees you will sit either by the window or the aisle.
• Best Views: Wings Air planes fly at low altitude, so Window seats will offer you unforgettable views of volcanoes and lagoons.
• Noise and Boarding: Engines are located under the wings, so the front of the cabin might be slightly quieter. However, boarding and disembarking on ATR 72 aircraft is often done through the rear door. If you want to leave the plane first (e.g., to clear passport control faster or collect baggage), choose seats in the tail.

Travel Insurance

Flights in the tropical region are subject to weather influence. Heavy rains or wind can cause flight delays, especially on routes with complex terrain, like flying to Wamena. We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance that covers flight delays and cancellations. If you have a connection with an international flight at Denpasar or Jakarta airports, allow at least 3–4 hours for the transfer.

Mobile App

Install the Lion Air app before your trip. It is universal for all airlines in the group, including Wings Air. Through the app, it is convenient to:

• Buy extra baggage (Pre-paid Baggage) cheaper than at the airport.
• Track flight status in real-time.
• Store booking history, which simplifies checking in for the return flight.

History and Development of Wings Air

The history of Wings Air (IW) is a chronicle of how a bold idea to connect thousands of scattered Indonesian islands turned into one of the most extensive regional route networks in Southeast Asia. Founded in 2003, the company began its journey with a clear mission: to become a reliable bridge between major metropolises and small, hard-to-reach settlements where large liners could not go.

Foundation and Early Years

Wings Air was created as a subsidiary of the rapidly developing Lion Air Group. In the early 2000s, the group's main carrier, Lion Air, focused on trunk routes between key cities. However, huge demand for flights to the regions required a separate approach. Wings Air began operations fulfilling the role of a feeder — transporting passengers from small airports to major hubs for transfer to flights of the "parent" company.

Fleet Evolution and Bet on Turboprops

In the early years of existence, the company's fleet was diverse and even included McDonnell Douglas MD-80 jet aircraft. However, a turning point in the carrier's history was the strategic reorientation towards turboprop aircraft. Management bet on Franco-Italian ATR liners, ideally suited for short runways.

In the 2010s, Wings Air became one of the world's largest customers for ATR aircraft. Signing a contract to purchase dozens of new ATR 72-500 and later ATR 72-600 liners allowed the airline not only to renew its fleet but also to radically expand its flight geography. Modern ATR 72-600s became the carrier's calling card, ensuring comfort and economy on short distances.

Network Expansion

With the receipt of new aircraft, Wings Air began actively developing routes that were previously served only by ferries or irregular flights. The company created an extensive network of hubs. Besides Jakarta, key nodes became Surabaya on Java and Manado in northern Sulawesi, from where paths opened to the most remote islands of the archipelago.

Special attention was paid to developing tourism in the Lesser Sunda Islands. Organising regular communication through Praya (Lombok) airport allowed travellers to easily reach neighbouring islands, stimulating the region's economic growth.

Modern Stage and Recognition

Today, Wings Air is not just a regional carrier, but an integral part of Indonesia's transport system. An important milestone in the company's recent history was passing the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit). This international recognition confirmed that the airline meets strict global safety standards, which significantly increased the confidence of foreign tourists.

In recent years, the company has been actively implementing digital technologies, integrating into the Lion Air Group ecosystem, which allows passengers departing, for example, from Makassar, to issue single tickets to any point in the world through partner networks. Wings Air's development continues, opening new, previously unexplored corners of the "Emerald of the Equator" to the world.