KAI encourages passengers at Kutoarjo Station to use facial recognition boarding gates

Purworejo – Ahead of the long weekend and end-May 2026 holiday period, KAI’s Operational Region 5 Purwokerto is encouraging the public to use facial recognition boarding gates to expedite departure processes at stations. The technology is seen as a solution to reduce queues during peak passenger periods while providing a more convenient travel experience, as passengers no longer need to present tickets or ID cards for boarding. The facial recognition boarding gates are currently available at Kutoarjo Station in Purworejo, Central Java, processing each passenger in one to two seconds. “Through facial recognition technology, the boarding process becomes more practical and efficient, enabling customers to enjoy a more comfortable travel experience, particularly during long holidays,” Asad said on Sunday, 25 May 2026. KAI data shows increasing usage of the service year-on-year, particularly at Kutoarjo Station. In 2024, 31,426 passengers used the facial recognition boarding gates; this figure rose to 180,159 in 2025. Between January and mid-May 2026 alone, 63,271 passengers used the service. Cumulatively from 2024 to May 2026, total users at Kutoarjo Station reached 274,856. “The increase in usage not only benefits passengers but also supports the company’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles,” he said. From 2024 to mid-May 2026, KAI saved 687 rolls of paper boarding passes at Kutoarjo Station, equivalent to cost savings of Rp10.14 million (Rp10,145,622). For unregistered travellers, facial recognition registration requires only one-time setup, with data usable permanently at all stations equipped with the system. “Registration can be done via the Access by KAI app or station registration officers,” he said. Asad urged the public to start using the service during the holiday period: “We encourage the public to use this service promptly to make holiday travel more convenient, modern, and environmentally friendly with KAI,” he concluded.