Train Seats for 2026 Eid Exodus Filled Over 100 Percent, How Is That Possible?

The occupancy rate for train seats during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming period has exceeded 100 percent. Several departure dates show daily train occupancy reaching 113 percent. How can this occur? Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI, Anne Purba, explained that occupancy rates surpassing 100 percent are possible due to dynamic travel patterns in train operations. “In a single long-distance train journey, one seat can be used by more than one passenger on different route segments,” Anne stated in an official release on Tuesday (17/3/2026). “This pattern allows the number of passengers served to be greater than the number of available seats,” she added. Based on data from PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), several departure dates with occupancy over 100 percent include: [Note: Specific dates not listed in the provided article]. Thus, there are still around 511,995 seats available for booking by the public for homecoming or return trips. Meanwhile, for local train services managed by KAI, ticket sales have reached 308,145 tickets, or 33.2 percent of the total 926,936 available seats. There are still approximately 618,791 seats available for passengers. Ticket sales for local trains generally increase closer to departure time, as most services can only be booked starting from H-7 before the journey. During the first six days of KAI’s Eid transportation period, from 11 to 16 March 2026, long-distance train services have served 760,229 passengers across various routes on Java and Sumatra. Anne added that passengers can consider travel alternatives by adjusting departure schedules, choosing different routes, or utilising connecting train schemes to find options that suit their needs. “With the remaining travel capacity, KAI invites the public to plan their Eid journeys early so that the homecoming trip is more comfortable, well-planned, and enjoyable by train,” Anne concluded.