Meet Harriko Fesfusi and Marina Trudy, the husband-and-wife team behind Fly Bali. What began as a shared dream has become a reality, transforming the aviation scene in Indonesia. Their focus is on safety, exceptional service and creating unforgettable journeys over Bali’s stunning landscapes.
Q: Can you share how your backgrounds and experiences led to the creation of Fly Bali?
Harriko Fesfusi (HF): I have been in aviation since 2008, starting as a helicopter pilot in the offshore oil and gas industry. Over time, I developed a deep respect for structure, discipline and safety.
Marina Trudy (MT): My aviation journey began a bit later in 2016. The following year, I met Captain Harriko, and it was clear from the start that he had a strong sense of principle. We quickly realised we shared the same dream: to build something meaningful for the aviation industry in Bali and Eastern Indonesia.
HF: Most aviation companies are established by businesspeople. I wanted to demonstrate that an aviator could build something just as strong, perhaps even stronger. It all started with a simple idea. We had a vision, created a plan and prepared thoroughly, and when the opportunity came, we went all in. Fly Bali is the result of believing in that journey and transforming an idea into something real.
Q: What were the biggest challenges in getting Fly Bali off the ground?
HF: Everything felt like a challenge in the beginning, especially launching without capital. We had to be comfortable with being underestimated and even rejected. Additionally, we needed to understand regulations, build our systems, find the right people and somehow fund it all.
MT: It was a steep learning curve. From creating standard operating procedures to managing endless paperwork, every step required grit and resilience. But that’s what makes the journey so rewarding, because we never gave up.
Q: Fly Bali is now a fully licensed air operator. What does that mean to you both, personally and professionally?
HF: It’s a significant emotional milestone. However, we see it as just the beginning. Aviation is one of the most heavily regulated industries, especially for public transport. Obtaining our Air Operator Certificate (AOC) meant proving ourselves in every aspect: safety, operations, finance and tax compliance.
MT: Many people give up before reaching that milestone. But we stayed the course. For me, it symbolises what’s possible. This licence shows that we’re not just a dream; we’re a responsible professional operator.
Q: Why Bali? What makes it the right place for Fly Bali, and what opportunities do you see ahead?
HF: Bali is Indonesia’s biggest tourism hub. Its geography is perfect for helicopters, but the traffic and limited infrastructure can make getting around a challenge. That’s where we come in. Fly Bali offers a faster, more reliable way to experience the island.
MT: And our vision doesn’t stop with Bali. Eastern Indonesia is filled with stunning, remote destinations that are still hard to access. We’re preparing to serve those areas too, not just for sightseeing but also for logistics and utility operations.
Q: Luxury travel is evolving. How does Fly Bali stay relevant and memorable for today’s discerning travellers?
MT: Everything we do starts with people. What will make them feel safe, cared for and wowed? We don’t make grand promises. Instead, we quietly go beyond expectations. Every flight, every detail, we design with purpose and care.
HF: And we always come back to safety. That’s non-negotiable. People often ask, “Can we do this? Can we go here?” And if we can do it safely, we make it happen.
Q: How would you describe your leadership styles?
HF: I lead by example. If something isn’t done right, I’ll show how it’s done. When mistakes happen, we learn together—there’s no blame. I’m disciplined and purpose-driven, and firmly believe there are no shortcuts, especially regarding safety.
MT: I’m more vision-driven. I take the dreams we discuss, and ensure the team and systems are ready to support them. I also pay close attention to our brand and the overall experience—how it makes people feel. Captain Harriko is intensely focused and ambitious—more than I am, honestly. But he’s also thoughtful. He doesn’t rush and leads with strength and high standards.
Q: What’s next for Fly Bali? Are there plans to expand?
HF: Definitely. Now that we’re fully licensed, we’re ready to scale—carefully and with intention. We’ll be adding fixed-wing aircraft to our fleet. Our goal is to become one of Indonesia’s trusted airlines. Who knows? In a couple of years, you might see Fly Bali flying from Bali to Melbourne, Singapore and even beyond.
MT: It’s a long road ahead, but we’re preparing for it. Our vision is to grow with discipline and a long-term mindset. No matter how big we get, our core values will remain the same: safety, quality and reliability. Fly Bali is here to serve—not just to fly.
Fly Bali
Jalan Pantai Melasti, Ungasan
Bali 80362, Indonesia
T: (+62) 82146910299
W: flybali.id
IG: @flybali_
Asia Dreams Volume 55
