IKN Nusantara to Have Airport Train, Stretching 46.06 KM

The development of Indonesia’s new capital city is advancing with a new transportation milestone. The Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) aims to establish a 46.06-kilometer airport train line for the IKN Nusantara Capital City.

Agung Wicaksono, OIKN’s Deputy for Financing and Investment, disclosed that the estimated investment for IKN Nusantara airport train project reaches US$3.32 billion, equivalent to Rp53.63 trillion. This includes construction costs of Rp51.68 trillion to bolster railway infrastructure and Rp1.95 trillion for trainset procurement.

Agung stated, “The feasibility study is currently underway by the Ministry of Transportation. We’re striving to commence operations by 2029.” This announcement came during the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) Webinar in collaboration with ITS Indonesia.

The envisioned Balikpapan-IKN airport train will be operated by PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) or KAI. Agung emphasized that they are coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure seamless infrastructure development.

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The airport train will connect Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport to the KIPP zone 1A area. The travel time from the airport to KIPP 1A is projected to be under 34.6 minutes once operational.

Five companies, including China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) and Len Railways Systems (LRS), have expressed interest in the project. Agung stated, “Our aim is to operationalize the Balikpapan-Nusantara airport train within the next 5 years.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) affirmed that the IKN Airport construction progress aligns with plans and is proceeding well.

Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi expressed optimism about commencing airport trials in July based on current progress. He remarked, “The IKN Airport construction progress is on track. I’m confident it can undergo trials in July.”

Minister Sumadi assured that the project is being executed diligently, with all workers committed to timely completion.

Director General of Air Transportation Maria Kristi echoed optimism, hoping the IKN Airport would be ready for the August 17th ceremony, emphasizing the project’s significance for Indonesia’s future connectivity.