Big news for surfers, tourists, and adventure travelers — you can now fly directly from Padang to the Mentawai Islands thanks to Wings Air’s brand-new service launching March 28, 2025. This new Padang to Mentawai flight makes getting to this remote surf paradise faster and easier than ever, cutting out the need for the long and often unpredictable ferry ride.
Starting March 28, 2025, this new route eliminates the need for the long and sometimes unpredictable 4-hour ferry ride, making the journey faster, easier, and more convenient. With twice-weekly flights on Mondays and Fridays, reaching the world-famous waves of Mentawai just became a whole lot simpler.
The launch of Wings Air flights was made possible thanks to the recent completion of Mentawai’s upgraded runway at Rokot Airport. The 1,500-metre runway — built as part of the New Mentawai Airport Development — now accommodates larger aircraft like the ATR-72 used by Wings Air.
Whether you’re a surfer looking to maximize wave time, a tourist eager to explore the islands, or a business traveler needing a quick connection, these flights are a game-changer.
Here’s everything you need to know about the schedule, booking process, and what this means for travel in the Mentawai Islands.
Key Takeaways
- New direct flights: Wings Air now flies Padang (PDG) → Mentawai (RKI) starting March 28, 2025.
- Travel time reduced: Skip the 4-hour ferry and fly in just under 1 hour.
- Flight schedule: Operates Mondays & Fridays, with departures from Padang at 10:30 AM.
- Traveling with surfboards: Allowed, but strict policies apply—max length 200cm, IDR 1,000,000 handling fee per board.
- Booking available: Tickets can be purchased via the BookCabin app (Lion Air Group) and Lion Air website from March 6, 2025.
Traveling to Mentawai for Eid?
With the Mentawai Fast Ferry suspended for several days for Eid Al-Fitr , Villa Onu’s all-inclusive Eid Special gets you locked down in the worlds best surf region 🌊
Limited spots left, lock yours in now!
Why This is Big News for Mentawai Travelers
Previously, travelers relied on the Mentawai Fast Ferry from Padang to Mentawai, making trips longer and less convenient.
Faster access for surfers and tourists, allowing for more time in the waves and less time commuting while also allowing people who were put of by the lengthy ferry ride to experience Mentawai.
The launch of the new Wings Air Padang to Mentawai flights coincides with recent developments, including:
- Expansion of Mentawai’s airport runway → now able to accommodate more and larger aircraft.
- Increase in Mentawai’s surf tax → More surfers = more tax income.
- Increase in Wings Air Surfboard Fees → Effective May 12, 2024, Wings air increased its surfboard fees from 200k per board to 1,000,000 (One Million) IDR per board, per leg.
Wings Air Padang to Mentawai Flight Schedule & Booking Details
Padang – Mentawai Flight Schedule (Starting March 28, 2025)
| Route | Flight No. | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Days |
| Padang (PDG) → Mentawai (RKI) | IW-1762 | 10:30 AM | 11:20 AM | Monday, Friday |
| Mentawai (RKI) → Padang (PDG) | IW-1763 | 11:40 AM | 12:30 PM | Monday, Friday |
How to Book Tickets
- Available on the BookCabin app (Lion Air Group)
- Through the Lion Air Website or download Lion Air app
- Tickets can be purchased starting March 6, 2025.
- Online check-in available through the Wings Air app.
What Travelers Need to Know
Aircraft Details
- Wings Air operates an ATR 72-500 / ATR 72-600 for this route.
- Capacity: 70 passengers
- Ideal for short-haul flights, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Surfboard & Baggage Policy
Wings Air allows you to fly with surfboards, but strict policies apply:
- Maximum length: 200 cm (for propeller aircraft)
- Maximum weight: 23 KG per board
- Handling Fee: IDR 1,000,000 (~$65 USD) per board, per segment
- Surfboards not included in free baggage allowance
- Must fill out Special Baggage Form at check-in
- Other international handling fees apply
Should You Take the Flight?
✔ YES if: You want a fast, hassle-free way to get to Mentawai and do not mind spending for surfboards.
✖ NO if: You’re watching your budget, traveling with many boards, and/or don’t mind the ferry.
Wings Air Mentawai FAQs
How much does the Wings Air surfboard fee cost?
IDR 1,000,000 per board, per flight leg.
Can I book a flight from Padang to Mentawai online?
Yes — tickets are available on the Lion Air website, BookCabin app, or Lion Air app starting March 6, 2025.
What airport do I fly into in Mentawai?
Rokot Airport (RKI) is the new regional airport in the Mentawai Islands.
Are there ferries still available as an alternative?
Yes, the Mentawai Fast Ferry still operates, but the flight is now the fastest option.
If you’d rather take the scenic route, check out our guide to the Mentawai Fast Ferry.
