KCIC confident reactivated Bandung airport won't hurt Whoosh train passengers
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- PT KCIC is confident that reactivating Husein Sastranegara Airport will not impact passenger numbers for the Jakarta-Bandung Whoosh high-speed train.
- The airport's reactivation aims to provide more travel alternatives for residents and tourists.
- KCIC believes the Whoosh train offers a unique experience beyond just speed and efficiency.
PT KCIC, the operator of the Jakarta-Bandung Whoosh high-speed train, has expressed confidence that the planned reactivation of Husein Sastranegara Airport in Bandung will not detract from its passenger base. Emir Monti, KCIC's Corporate Communication Manager, stated that the government's initiative to reopen the airport is intended to offer diverse travel options for both domestic and international travelers.
"The reactivation of Husein Sastranegara Airport offers various alternatives for the public and foreign tourists," Monti said. He assured that there is no concern about competition between the high-speed train and air travel for the Jakarta-Bandung route. While acknowledging that flights might be faster for the journey, Monti emphasized that the Whoosh train provides more than just speed and efficiency.
Regarding the plan to reactivate Husein Sastranegara Airport, it's about how the government wants to provide the best alternatives for the public and foreign tourists.
Monti highlighted that the Whoosh train offers a unique experience, drawing passengers who wish to experience Southeast Asia's first high-speed rail. This experiential aspect, he believes, differentiates it from air travel and will continue to attract ridership. The Bandung city government has welcomed the addition of air connectivity at Husein Sastranegara Airport, anticipating that new routes will enhance travel accessibility for West Java residents and strengthen inter-city mobility.
But Whoosh is not just about transportation and time efficiency; it's also about providing an experience for its users. Those who use Whoosh do so because they want to experience riding the first high-speed train in Southeast Asia.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.