Fly SamaSama: A New Way to Fly to the Mentawai Islands
The Mentawai Islands are home to some of the world’s most consistent and iconic waves. From long, perfect reef breaks to warm tropical water and uncrowded lineups on the right day, it’s a dream destination for surfers from around the globe.
But getting here has traditionally been part of the adventure — and not always the easiest part.
Travelling from Europe, Australia or elsewhere often means multiple flights, an overnight stay in Padang, and a ferry journey across to the islands before you can finally paddle out.
Now, a new travel option could change the way surfers reach the Mentawais. Fly SamaSama is preparing a charter flight service connecting Kuala Lumpur directly to the Mentawai Islands, with a planned launch in March 2027.
What Is Fly SamaSama?
Fly SamaSama is developing a charter flight service designed to simplify travel to the Mentawai Islands.
Rather than relying on the traditional combination of domestic flights, overnight accommodation, and ferry crossings, the service aims to combine the main air journey into a single, streamlined itinerary — cutting down both travel time and logistical hassle.
Fly SamaSama Flight Details
Here’s an overview of the currently announced plans:
🛫 Route: Kuala Lumpur (KLIA) to the Mentawai Islands, via Padang for Indonesian immigration
📅 Expected launch: March 2027
🗓️ Planned operating days: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
⏱️ Estimated journey time: Approximately three hours, including the immigration stop
💰 Indicative return fare: Around US$1,000 per person
🏄 Surfboard allowance: A planned total baggage allowance of up to 35kg, including up to three surfboards and one additional bag (subject to the final baggage policy)
⚠️ Important: These details are indicative and should be reconfirmed with Fly SamaSama before booking. Schedules, fares and baggage conditions may change before launch.
How Does the Journey Work?
The proposed route is designed to make the transfer to the Mentawais as straightforward as possible.
- Arrive in Kuala Lumpur. International travellers can plan their journey around Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), an important connection point for flights from many parts of Asia and beyond.
- Fly to Padang. From Kuala Lumpur, the charter flight is planned to travel to Padang, West Sumatra. Passengers will complete Indonesian immigration during this stop, with a fast-track process planned to minimise waiting time.
- Continue to the Mentawai Islands. After immigration, passengers will continue by air to the Mentawais, avoiding the usual need to organise a separate ferry crossing from mainland Sumatra.
- Transfer to your surf accommodation. Once you arrive in the islands, you’ll still need to coordinate the final transfer to your accommodation. The exact arrangements will depend on your destination and the resort or surf camp you’re staying with.
As with any new route, confirm the complete itinerary and transfer arrangements before finalising your international flights.
Can You Bring Your Surfboards?
For most surfers, baggage is one of the biggest considerations when travelling to the Mentawais.
The planned Fly SamaSama allowance of up to 35kg — including as many as three surfboards and one additional bag — could make the service particularly attractive to surfers who prefer travelling with their own quiver.
Whether you’re bringing a couple of everyday shortboards or boards for different conditions, having a clear surfboard allowance can make planning your trip considerably easier.
💡 Pro tip: Don’t assume every board configuration will automatically be accepted. Confirm final weight limits, board dimensions, number of bags and any additional charges directly with the operator before travelling.
Fly SamaSama vs. the Traditional Route
For years, the standard journey to the Mentawais has generally involved flying into Padang, staying overnight if necessary, and taking a ferry to the islands before arranging a final boat transfer.
Fly SamaSama aims to simplify that process by combining the main air journey into a single charter itinerary.
| Factor | Traditional Route | Fly SamaSama (Planned) |
|---|---|---|
| Journey | Multiple flights + overnight in Padang + ferry + boat transfer | Single charter itinerary via Padang (immigration stop) |
| Travel time | Longer — spread over 1–2 days | Approx. 3 hours (KUL to Mentawais) |
| Flexibility | High — more flight options | Fixed operating days (Mon, Wed, Fri) |
| Budget | Can be cheaper — but add ferry, hotel, transfers | Indicative ~US$1,000 return |
| Surfboard baggage | Varies by airline | Up to 35kg incl. 3 boards (planned) |
| Best for | Budget travellers, flexible schedules | Surfers valuing convenience and time |
The traditional route may still be the better choice for travellers on a tighter budget or those who prefer greater flexibility with their flights. Fly SamaSama, if launched as planned, could appeal to surfers who value convenience and want to spend less time in transit.
Is Fly SamaSama Worth It for Your Mentawai Surf Trip?
That depends on your priorities.
If you’re travelling a long distance for a one- or two-week surf trip, reducing travel time can make a real difference. Less time spent connecting flights and waiting for ferries means more time to settle into island life and focus on surfing.
The service could also be particularly useful for groups travelling together with multiple boards and surf equipment.
On the other hand, the indicative fare may be higher than some traditional travel combinations. It’s worth comparing the total cost of each option — including domestic flights, accommodation in Padang, ferry tickets, transfers and baggage charges.
For surfers who value convenience, the planned route could be an exciting new alternative.
When Can You Book Fly SamaSama?
The service is planned to launch in March 2027, with ticket sales expected ahead of the first flights.
Because this is a new route, we recommend checking the latest information directly with the operator before booking your international flights or committing to fixed travel dates.
Planning Your Mentawai Surf Trip with Solid Surf House
At Solid Surf House, we know that getting to the Mentawais is an important part of planning your surf adventure.
The right travel option depends on your arrival airport, travel dates, budget, surfboard baggage and the logistics of reaching your accommodation.
Fly SamaSama could offer an exciting new way to reach the islands in 2027, particularly for international surfers looking to simplify their journey.
Whether you choose the traditional route through Padang or a new charter option, planning ahead is essential for a smooth trip.
Keep an eye on the latest flight information as the 2027 season approaches, and contact Solid Surf House if you need help coordinating your journey to the Mentawais.
We look forward to welcoming you to the islands and getting you into the water.