Long Weekend Return Rush: Thousands of Whoosh Tickets to Jakarta Sell Out, KCIC Issues Advisory

The long weekend return rush has begun to overwhelm the Whoosh high-speed train service on Sunday (31 May). By 12:00 WIB, PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) recorded over 12,000 tickets sold, with total passenger volume expected to rise to 20,000 by the last train schedule.

This significant increase is dominated by Bandung-to-Jakarta routes, accounting for 50% of total activity, while Jakarta-to-Bandung journeys make up 42%, with the remainder from Karawang Station. The surge follows the end of holiday and family visit periods.

Eva Chairunisa, KCIC’s Corporate Secretary, noted that passenger congestion from Bandung to Jakarta was evident since morning and is expected to continue until evening, especially during peak departure times.

To manage the crowds, KCIC advises passengers to plan their journeys digitally. “We recommend checking ticket availability and purchasing online in advance to secure suitable travel schedules,” she said.

Passengers can check schedules, seat availability, and book tickets via the official Whoosh app, ticket.kcic.co.id, and executive partners including Access by KAI, Livin’ by Mandiri, BRImo, Wondr by BNI, Tiket.com, Traveloka, and Trip.com.

Additionally, for passengers in Bandung and surrounding areas, KCIC recommends using the free feeder train service from Bandung and Cimahi stations to Padalarang. This service is fully integrated with all Whoosh schedules at no extra cost, offering a congestion-free option amid increased road traffic.

Eva also stressed punctuality, noting that Whoosh and feeder train boarding gates close 5 minutes before departure. Passengers are advised to arrive early at stations.

“With proper use of integrated services and timely arrival at stations, passengers can enjoy a more comfortable, convenient return journey and avoid missing their trains,” she added.