Jakarta, the vibrant capital of Indonesia, hosts two major airports that serve millions of passengers each year. Whether visiting for the first time or being a seasoned traveler, navigating Jakarta airports can be a daunting experience.
This all-encompassing guide is crafted to provide you with a deeper understanding of these airports, helping to ensure a seamless travel experience from beginning to end.
Overview of Jakarta Airports
How many airports are there in Jakarta? Jakarta boasts two prominent airports:
- Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK): The largest and busiest airport in Indonesia, located in Tangerang, around 20 kilometers from central Jakarta. It primarily handles international and domestic flights.
- Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP): A smaller airport closer to central Jakarta, mainly serving domestic routes and chartered flights.
Soekarno-Hatta Airport is the main gateway for international travelers, while Halim Perdanakusuma focuses on domestic connections. Both Jakarta airports are essential for connecting Indonesia’s islands to the world.
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport: Terminals and Facilities
Terminal 1: The Domestic Hub
Built in 1985, Terminal 1 serves domestic flights and accommodates around 9 million passengers annually. Airlines like Lion Air, Citilink, and Batik Air operate here. While primarily for domestic travel, some international flights, such as those operated by Sriwijaya Air, also use this terminal.
- Bluesky Executive Lounge: Located in Terminal 1C, this lounge offers Wi-Fi, refreshments, and a prayer room. It’s a great spot to relax before your flight.
- Accessibility: Terminal 1 is conveniently located near Terminals 2 and 3, making transferring easy if needed.
Terminal 2: International and Domestic Mix
Soekarno-Hatta Airport Terminal 1, built in 1991, mainly handles international flights but also accommodates some domestic routes. Airlines such as AirAsia and Qatar Airways operate from here. Renovations in 2018 introduced new dining and shopping options, making the terminal more pleasant for travelers.
- Premier Lounge: This lounge, located in Terminal 2D, offers premium services, including comfortable seating, buffet meals, and shower facilities.
- Jakarta Airport Hotel: Located in Terminal 2, this hotel is convenient for overnight stays, especially for travelers with early morning flights.
Terminal 3: The Modern Marvel
Soekarno-Hatta Airport Terminal 3, also known as Terminal 3 Ultimate, is the newest addition. It was opened in 2016 and is designed to handle a growing number of international flights. It is known for its modern architecture and extensive facilities.
- Garuda Indonesia’s Base: As the national carrier, Garuda Indonesia operates its international and domestic flights primarily from Terminal 3.
- Lounge Options: Multiple lounges, including the Garuda Indonesia Lounge, allow passengers to enjoy top-tier services while waiting.
Halim Perdanakusuma Airport
Halim Perdanakusuma, Jakarta’s secondary airport, is mainly dedicated to domestic flights, particularly to other Indonesian cities. It is located closer to the city center than Soekarno-Hatta, making it a convenient choice for short-haul flights.
Jakarta offers a wide range of accommodations, with hotels located directly at the airports or nearby for easy access. Popular choices include the Jakarta Airport Hotel, located in Terminal 2, and the d’primahotel, located in Terminal 1.
Accommodation options near Soekarno-Hatta are ideal for convenience-seeking travelers, especially those with early morning flights or long layovers. The hotel is managed by Topotels, Jakarta Airport Hotel, a 3-star hotel known for its comfort and positive guest reviews.
How to Get from Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta City
Navigating Jakarta’s busy traffic can be challenging, especially if unfamiliar with the city’s transportation systems. How to get to Jakarta airport to city is a common concern for travelers, as flying into Jakarta airports in Central Jakarta requires preparation for the journey into the city center.
The notorious traffic jams during rush hours can make the trip lengthy, so understanding your options in advance can help you save time and avoid frustration.
Transportation Options
The traffic in Jakarta can be quite shocking for those who haven’t encountered it in person. Depending on the time and the road conditions, traveling from the airport to the city center may take a few hours.
Here are some factors to consider before choosing your mode of transport:
- Budget: Some transportation options are more economical than others.
- Time: Do you need to reach your destination quickly or have a more flexible schedule?
- Comfort: Are you traveling alone or with others? This will affect your choice of transport.
- Mode of Travel: Do you prefer road travel, or would you rather take a Jakarta airport train?
Several transport options from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport are available, each catering to different preferences. These options are:
- DAMRI Airport Bus
- Airport Rail Link
- Metered Taxis
- Private Ride-Hailing Services (Grab, Gojek)
- Hotel Pick-up Services
1. Airport Bus: DAMRI Shuttle to Jakarta
For travelers looking to save money, the DAMRI Airport Bus offers one of the cheapest options to travel from Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta. This bus service runs from all three terminals and provides connections to multiple locations throughout the city.
Ticket prices begin around IDR 40,000, making it a great option for domestic travelers and backpackers who don’t mind longer travel times.
- Key Destinations: The bus directly services popular areas like Gambir Station, Rawamangun, Blok M, and even neighboring cities such as Bekasi and Bogor.
- Frequency: Buses generally depart every 30 minutes, but it’s advisable to be prepared for possible traffic delays.
- Duration: Depending on traffic, the trip to Gambir Station (Jakarta’s central hub) can take 45 minutes to two hours.
Tickets are available for purchase at the designated DAMRI ticket booths located in the arrivals hall of every terminal. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, follow the blue DAMRI signage outside the terminals.
2. Airport Rail Link: A Faster Alternative
The Airport Rail Link (Railink) provides a faster and more straightforward connection to Jakarta, perfect for travelers who want to avoid the city’s infamous traffic congestion.
- Route: The train travels from Soekarno-Hatta to BNI City Station in the heart of Jakarta. On the way, it stops at Batu Ceper and Duri stations.
- Duration: The trip to BNI City Station takes approximately 45 minutes, making it one of the fastest ways to get to central Jakarta.
- Fare: A ticket costs around IDR 70,000 per person.
- Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes, ensuring travelers don’t have to wait long for the next service.
Tickets are available for purchase at ticket vending machines situated at the Integrated Railway Station between Terminals 1 and 2 via the Railink mobile application or through the website.
3. Private Ride-Hailing Services: Grab and Gojek
In recent years, Grab and Gojek have become popular options for Jakarta airports transportation. Grab, in particular, has a designated pick-up zone at Soekarno-Hatta, making it easier for passengers to find their ride. These services offer more comfort and flexibility than public transportation.
- How it Works: Open the app to request a ride, and you’ll be picked up at the designated location.
- Language Barrier: While most drivers are proficient in basic English, knowing a few basic Indonesian phrases can ensure smooth communication.
- Cost: The fare will depend on your destination, but be aware that toll charges are not included in the app fare. You’ll need to pay for these separately.
4. Taxis: Blue Bird and Silver Bird
Taxis are reliable transport from Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta, though sometimes more expensive. While Blue Bird and Silver Bird taxis are the most reputable companies, avoiding illegal taxi touts that may approach you at the airport is important.
- Official Pick-up Zones: Taxis operate from the official taxi counters in each terminal’s arrival area.
- Cost: Expect to pay anywhere from IDR 150,000 to IDR 300,000, depending on your destination and traffic conditions.
- Duration: The trip may take longer during peak hours, so it’s wise to factor in the potential delays caused by Jakarta’s traffic.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Each of these transportation options offers different advantages, depending on your priorities.
Here is what you need to consider:
- If you travel during off-peak hours and are willing to take a longer journey, the DAMRI Bus offers excellent value for money.
- However, if you’re pressed for time and want to avoid traffic congestion, the Railink is a much faster and more direct option.
- Grab and Gojek provide door-to-door service for ultimate convenience, while taxis remain a reliable fallback for those seeking a more straightforward experience.
Accommodation Options Near Jakarta Airports
For travelers needing a place to stay near the Jakarta airports, several options are available:
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport
- Jakarta Airport Hotel: Located in Terminal 2, it’s ideal for short stays or layovers.
- d’primahotel Terminal 1A: A budget-friendly choice directly connected to Terminal 1.
Halim Perdanakusuma Airport
Nearby budget and mid-range hotels offer convenience for domestic travelers.
Dining and Shopping at Jakarta Airports
Jakarta airports provide a wide range of dining and shopping options:
Dining
- Soekarno-Hatta offers a mix of local and international cuisines, from Padang restaurants to fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks.
- Halim Perdanakusuma features smaller cafes and Indonesian eateries catering to domestic passengers.
Shopping
- Duty-free shops in Terminal 3 at Soekarno-Hatta are a highlight, offering a variety of luxury goods and local products.
- Souvenir shops selling batik clothing, coffee, and handicrafts are scattered throughout the Soekarno-Hatta Airport’s Terminals.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
Traveling can sometimes be overwhelming, but with the right planning and smart strategies, navigating Jakarta airports can be smooth and stress-free.
Whether you’re flying from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport or Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, these practical tips will help streamline your journey for a more enjoyable experience.
Plus, knowing the best time to visit Jakarta can make your trip even more pleasant, allowing you to avoid peak travel seasons and long queues.
1. Plan Ahead
Before going to the Jakarta airports, take a moment to organize your trip. This can help minimize stress and avoid possible problems.
- Check Your Flight Details: Always verify your flight details in advance, including departure time, gate number, and any last-minute schedule changes. Many airlines offer real-time updates via mobile apps or email notifications.
- Know Your Terminal: Jakarta’s main airport, Soekarno-Hatta, has three terminals (Terminal 1, 2, and 3), each serving different airlines and destinations. Make sure you know which terminal your flight departs from so you can plan your transportation accordingly and avoid unnecessary confusion.
- Review Immigration and Security Requirements: Familiarize yourself with additional security measures, especially if traveling internationally. Check the validity of your passport, visa requirements, and any special regulations for your destination country.
2. Arrive Early
Traffic in Jakarta can be erratic, and reaching the airport too near to your flight departure might lead to avoidable anxiety or missed connections. Here’s how to guarantee you have enough time:
- Allow Extra Time for Traffic: Jakarta’s traffic can be highly variable, so it’s recommended that you arrive at the airport at least three hours before an international flight and two hours before a domestic one.
- Use Shuttle Services or Taxis: To avoid traffic delays and guarantee an on-time arrival, consider reserving a shuttle or airport taxi.
3. Pack Smart
Proper packing is crucial for a seamless airport journey. By organizing your luggage wisely and understanding baggage regulations, you can save time and minimize the chances of delays during check-in or security procedures.
- Know Baggage Limits: Review your airline’s luggage guidelines for restrictions on weight and dimensions, and make sure that any liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on meet the regulations (no more than 100ml in a transparent, resealable bag).
- Avoid Prohibited Items: Know the security guidelines to prevent packing sharp items, bulky electronics, or prohibited liquids in your carry-on.
- Keep Essentials Handy: Keep your passport, boarding pass, and important documents in a convenient pocket or pouch, and carry a portable charger for your electronic devices.
4. Use Airport Facilities for Comfort
Jakarta airports can often be crowded and loud, yet many facilities are designed to enhance your comfort and make your stay more pleasant.
- Take Advantage of Lounges: If you have lounge access, enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, refreshments, and priority check-in for added convenience.
- Utilize Charging Stations: Keep your devices at the airport’s many charging stations. Don’t forget your cables or a power bank.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with the free Wi-Fi at Soekarno-Hatta for browsing, checking emails, or entertainment.
- Relax with Food and Beverages: Enjoy a variety of dining options at Soekarno-Hatta and Halim Perdanakusuma to fuel up before your flight.
- Explore Retail Options: Browse duty-free shops for souvenirs, fashion, or electronics while you wait.
By applying these suggestions, you can minimize stress and enhance your experience at Jakarta’s airports, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Traveling through Jakarta airport doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Familiarizing yourself with the airport’s layout, transportation choices, and amenities can make your trip more seamless. Whether you’re flying within the country or abroad, Jakarta’s airports offer modern services to cater to your travel requirements. We wish you a pleasant journey!
