London to Jakarta flights

Jakarta almost always means a change of plane, since direct services from London are rare. Emirates, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines run many of the flights from London to Jakarta out of Heathrow, connecting in Dubai, Doha or Singapore. The current lowest price is £301.

When departing from the UK capital, flights typically leave from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) or London Gatwick Airport (LGW).

London Heathrow is located 16 miles west of central London and is accessible by the Heathrow Express, the Elizabeth line and the Piccadilly line. London Gatwick is situated 29 miles south of the city and is served by the Gatwick Express.

Flights land at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), the primary gateway located 18 miles from the city centre. To reach central Jakarta, the Railink train provides a reliable service from the airport station to BNI City Station in the heart of the capital. Alternatively, Blue Bird Taxis and private hire vehicles are available at designated pick-up points outside the terminals. However, be mindful of the city's famous 'macet' (traffic), which can significantly extend travel times during the rainy season.

The airport offers essential facilities for arriving travellers, including currency exchange counters and duty-free shops. If your flight arrives at the smaller Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP), you will find it closer to the financial district, though it primarily handles domestic and short-haul regional traffic.

Entry requirements for Jakarta

British citizens travelling to Indonesia require a passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival. You must also obtain an Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) before travelling or upon landing at the airport. It is essential to ensure your passport has at least one blank page for the entry stamp and that you can provide proof of a return or onward flight.

Jakarta offers a diverse range of experiences, from the historic Dutch colonial architecture of Kota Tua to the modern skyline views from the National Monument (Monas). You can explore the vast Taman Mini Indonesia Indah to see traditional houses representing the nation's provinces or visit the Jakarta Fair if you are travelling in June or July. The city serves as a gateway to the rest of Indonesia, blending its deep cultural roots with a rapidly evolving urban landscape.