In some areas, flying may be the only practical way to get around. State-operated Garuda handles international flights (though you might use them for transport within Indonesia), and Merpati is the domestic operator. Provincial services are supplemented by Mandala and Bouraq . The quantity and quality of services is very uncertain at present, however, and some marginal routes have closed. It's essential to reconfirm your seat, as waiting lists can be huge and the temptation for airline staff to bump you off in favour of a benefactor is enormous; get a computer printout of the reconfirmation if possible. Arrive at the airport early , as seats on overbooked flights are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. At other times, "fully booked" planes can be almost empty, so if you really have to get somewhere it's always worth going to the airport to check.