KAI Records Growth in Long-Distance Train Travel to Banyuwangi in Q1 2026
JAKARTA - PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has recorded growth in the number of long-distance train passengers throughout the first quarter of 2026. In Q1 2026, the KA Blambangan Ekspres served 121,699 customers.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, stated that one of the longest routes currently is the KA Blambangan Ekspres, which operates a return service between Pasar Senen and Ketapang.
Covering a distance of 1,031 kilometres, the KA Blambangan Ekspres is Indonesia’s longest train route. The journey traverses the northern Java line through major cities such as Cirebon, Semarang, and Surabaya, before continuing to Banyuwangi at the eastern tip of Java island.
“This figure demonstrates the high interest among the public in undertaking long-distance travel by train, which provides certainty of time and comfort throughout the journey,” said Anne in an official statement on Friday (17/4/2026).
“The KA Blambangan Ekspres takes customers through many cities and diverse landscapes. From the hustle and bustle of Jakarta to the coastal atmosphere of Banyuwangi, this journey becomes part of an experience that can be enjoyed along the beautiful rail route,” Anne added.
From a tourism perspective, travel to Banyuwangi shows a continuously growing trend. Based on data from the Banyuwangi Regency Central Statistics Agency (BPS), domestic tourist visits reached around 1.3 million trips in Q1 2026, an increase compared to the same period the previous year. Meanwhile, international tourist visits were recorded at around 9,000 in the same period.
Anne explained that this increase is related to the increasingly open access to Banyuwangi, including through direct train services from Jakarta and major cities on Java island.
“Travel to Banyuwangi is now easier to reach. The KA Blambangan Ekspres offers a comfortable journey option with measured travel time, allowing the public to plan tourist trips with greater certainty,” Anne added.
The KA Blambangan Ekspres is an executive and economy class train service designed for long-distance travel. The available facilities support customer comfort, from ergonomic seating to a cabin atmosphere that accommodates long journeys.
KAI will continue to maintain service consistency to ensure every journey runs safely, comfortably, and on time. Through stronger connectivity, trains become an important part in connecting the public with various opportunities, including the continuously developing tourism sector.
“Every journey we provide brings different stories and purposes. We want to ensure customers experience greater comfort, peace, and uniqueness in every trip, from departure to arrival at the destination,” Anne emphasised.