Indonesia’s first high-speed bullet train, WHOOSH, connecting Jakarta and Bandung, has commenced commercial operations, offering a swift 40-minute journey between the two cities. Operated by PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), WHOOSH began with 14 trips daily but increased to 25 due to high demand. Since its launch on October 17, 2023, the train has served around 58,000 passengers, with a daily average of 7,200 and an occupancy rate of approximately 90% per trip.
The high-speed train aims to improve accessibility between Jakarta and Bandung, benefiting the tourism industry. However, challenges such as additional costs for group travel and the distance of WHOOSH stations from Bandung city center have been noted. Tourism operators are closely monitoring the sustainability of demand, particularly as promotional fares, such as the 150,000 rupiah (US$9.40) premium economy class ticket, are set to expire by the end of November 2023. A first-class ticket, costing 600,000 rupiah (US$37.70), is seen as suitable for high-level executives or government officials prioritizing accessibility and time savings.
Hotel operators, such as Savoy Homan Hotel in Bandung, are observing customer response to the new transportation option and considering adjustments, such as pick-up services or shuttle buses, based on guest preferences. The high-speed train aims to enhance transportation options and potentially boost tourism by providing an efficient and eco-friendly mode of travel between the two Indonesian cities.
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