Jakarta Airport Transport
Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is Indonesia’s main air gateway and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports. Whether you’re arriving or departing, the airport offers a wide range of transport options to connect you efficiently with Jakarta city center and the surrounding region. From modern trains and comfortable buses to taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals, travelers can choose the solution that best fits their needs, schedule, and budget.
Buses and Shuttle Services
Jakarta’s airport is well connected to the city and surrounding areas by a variety of bus and shuttle services. The main operator is DAMRI, which offers direct routes from all terminals to popular city destinations such as Thamrin City, Gambir Station, and Blok M. Buses depart every 30–60 minutes, with journey times of around 30–60 minutes depending on traffic.
- Location: Bus stops are clearly signposted outside each terminal.
- Price: 46,000–200,000 IDR (approx. €2.50–€12) depending on route and class.
- Popular Destinations: Thamrin City, Gambir, Mangga Dua, Bekasi, Bogor.
DAMRI buses are air-conditioned and comfortable. Buy tickets at official counters inside the terminal or online for convenience.
Private shuttle services and hotel shuttles are also available, with prices starting around 50,000 IDR. These can be pre-booked for added comfort and direct drop-off at your hotel.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing (VTC)
Taxis are available 24/7 at dedicated ranks outside each terminal. Reputable companies include Blue Bird, Express, and Gamya. Rides to central Jakarta typically take 25–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Location: Taxi stands are located just outside the arrivals area of each terminal.
- Price: 190,000–240,000 IDR (€11–€14) to the city center. Limousine or executive taxis cost 390,000–550,000 IDR (€22–€31).
Always use official taxi counters or apps to avoid scams. Blue Bird is widely regarded as the most reliable operator.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are also available. Use the app to book and follow directions to the designated pick-up point. Prices are similar to regular taxis, but can be lower during off-peak times.
Metro/Train/Tram
The Soekarno-Hatta Airport Rail Link connects the airport directly to central Jakarta (BNI City/Sudirman Baru Station) and other key stops.
- Location: The train station is accessible by a free Skytrain shuttle from all terminals.
- Price: Around 70,000–100,000 IDR (€4–€6) per journey.
- Duration: 45–55 minutes to the city center.
Trains run every 30–60 minutes from early morning until late evening. This is the fastest way to avoid Jakarta’s notorious traffic.
Car Rental
Several international and local car rental companies operate at the airport, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to vans and SUVs.
- Location: Rental desks are located in the arrivals area of each terminal.
- Price: Daily rates start from around 350,000–500,000 IDR (€20–€28) for a small car, not including fuel or tolls.
Renting a car with a driver is common and recommended due to Jakarta’s complex traffic and road rules.
Getting to the Airport
All these transport options also operate in reverse, making it easy to reach the airport from anywhere in Jakarta or the surrounding region:
- By Bus: DAMRI and other operators run regular services from major city hubs to all terminals.
- By Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Book in advance, especially during rush hour, to ensure timely arrival.
- By Train: The Airport Rail Link is reliable and punctual, with easy connections to the city’s MRT and commuter lines.
- By Car: The airport is about 32 km from central Jakarta, with a typical journey time of 25–45 minutes depending on traffic.
During peak hours (morning and evening), always allow extra travel time, as Jakarta’s traffic can be unpredictable.
Transport between terminals
Transport between terminals at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is efficient and well-organized, making it easy for passengers to connect between Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.
SkyTrain (Automated People Mover)
The main way to move between terminals is the SkyTrain, a free, automated train service that links all passenger terminals and the airport railway station.
- Location: SkyTrain stations are located on the 2nd floor of each terminal. Signage throughout the terminals will guide you to the nearest station.
- Frequency: Every 13 minutes, from 6:00 AM to midnight.
- Journey Time: Each ride between terminals takes about 2–3 minutes. The longest journey, from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1, takes approximately 9 minutes.
- Cost: Free of charge.
- Tip: Allow a few extra minutes to walk from your arrival gate to the SkyTrain station—usually about a 3-minute walk.
Shuttle Buses
In addition to the SkyTrain, there are free shuttle buses operating between terminals. These are especially useful late at night when the SkyTrain is not running.
- Stops: Shuttle bus stops are clearly marked outside each terminal.
- Frequency: Buses run regularly, but exact intervals can vary depending on the time of day.
If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family, the shuttle bus can be more convenient, as it stops closer to ground-level entrances.
Walking
Walking between terminals is not recommended due to the distance and the layout of the airport; terminals are separated by roads and taxiways.
Baggage Transfer
If you have a connecting flight, your checked baggage will usually be transferred automatically between terminals by the airline, so you don’t need to collect it yourself.
Summary Table: Transport Between Terminals at CGK
Tips for Travelers:
- Always check your terminal before arrival, as walking is not feasible.
- If you have a tight connection, use the SkyTrain for the fastest transfer.
- For late-night connections, use the shuttle bus service.
- If you need assistance (reduced mobility, families), airport staff can help you reach the SkyTrain or shuttle bus stops.
Moving between terminals at Jakarta CGK is straightforward, thanks to the efficient SkyTrain and shuttle bus systems, ensuring smooth connections for all passengers.