With AirAsia announcing new daily direct flights between Melbourne and Bali Denpasar starting March 20th 2026, it felt like the perfect time to compare the two low-cost giants, Jetstar and AirAsia, on this popular route to see which airline fares better.
What We’re Comparing
Our analysis focuses on a return journey from May 12th to May 19th 2026, a period that avoids peak season and school holidays, and examines:
Price
Flight departure and arrival times
In-flight comfort, including seat pitch and recline
Safety
Jetstar
Jetstar operates four flights per day from Melbourne to Denpasar at 6:25, 9:15, 15:50, and 17:40, with a flight time of 6 hours and 10 minutes. Return flights depart Denpasar at 12:05, 15:10, 21:20, and 23:25, with a slightly shorter return journey of 5 hours and 30 minutes.
A return ticket with Jetstar’s Starter Plus bundle, which includes a 20kg checked bag, 7kg carry-on, seat selection, meal, and drink, costs $630 AUD. These were the cheapest flights available for the selected dates, although other departure times were only slightly more expensive.
AirAsia
AirAsia’s flight time is 6 hours and 25 minutes, with a single outbound option departing Melbourne at 6:00 am and arriving in Denpasar at 10:25 am local time. The return flight departs Denpasar at 21:10, arriving back in Melbourne at 05:00. The airline operates an A320 aircraft on this route.
AirAsia offers a bundle that includes a meal, drink, 20kg checked baggage, and seat selection. Using this equivalent bundle for comparison, the total return cost comes to $460 AUD, making AirAsia the cheaper option for these dates.
Aircraft & Comfort
Both carriers operate Airbus A320 family aircraft on this route, with Jetstar using the slightly larger A321, though passengers are unlikely to notice the difference on board. Jetstar seats are 18 inches wide with an average seat pitch of 29 inches, while AirAsia seats have the same pitch but are narrower at 17 inches. Neither airline provides complimentary amenity kits, blankets, or pillows. AirAsia does not offer in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, or in-seat power, whereas Jetstar allows passengers to stream entertainment to their own device for $9. However, the author notes that on many Jetstar flights this service has either not been available or has not been working, so it’s best to come prepared with your own content. While in-seat power is becoming increasingly common, there is no guarantee it will be available on your Jetstar flight. Neither airline offers business class, but both provide extra legroom seats at the emergency exits or at the front of the aircraft.
Safety
Both airlines score 7/7 for safety. Neither has yet completed AirlineRatings’ onboard audit to qualify for a 7-star-plus rating.
Conclusion
When comparing Jetstar and AirAsia on the Melbourne to Bali route, the choice depends on what passengers value most. Jetstar offers multiple daily flights, slightly wider seats, and optional entertainment (sometimes), making it appealing for flexibility and comfort. AirAsia however offers a lower overall price, making it the better choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Both airlines maintain high safety standards, so passengers can travel with confidence regardless of their choice.
Have questions or want to share your thoughts?
