Soekarno-Hatta International Airport

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is not merely the country's main transport hub, but the true air gateway to Indonesia, immersing travellers in a tropical atmosphere from the very first minute. This airport is often referred to as the "garden airport" due to its unique architecture, where modern pavilions are harmoniously integrated into a landscape of lush greenery and traditional Javanese motifs. For many tourists, their introduction to the archipelago's rich culture begins right here, amidst open corridors and blooming orchids.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Soekarno-Hatta Airport stands out among other global hubs with its distinctive style and thoughtful infrastructure. Here, technology coexists with nature, creating a relaxing environment even during high passenger traffic.

Key advantages for travellers:

• Unique Design: Terminals 1 and 2 are built in the style of traditional Javanese "Joglo" pavilions surrounded by tropical gardens. The new Terminal 3 (Ultimate) is a modern eco-building with spacious halls and art installations showcasing Indonesian culture.
• Convenient Navigation: A free automated Skytrain (Kalayang) runs between all three terminals, significantly simplifying transit.
• Transport Accessibility: The airport is connected to central Jakarta by a dedicated rail line (Airport Rail Link), allowing you to reach the city without traffic jams in approximately 50 minutes.
• Rest and Services: The premises feature a capsule hotel for transit passengers, numerous lounge zones, showers, and a rich selection of restaurants serving local cuisine, where you can taste authentic Indonesian Nasi Goreng before your flight.

If you need to contact representatives of Soekarno-Hatta Airport, please use the following contact details. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date information, as phone numbers and addresses may change.

• Official Website: soekarnohatta-airport.co.id — here you will find the latest information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Service Phone: +62 21 1500138 (24-hour contact centre of Angkasa Pura II, the airport operator).
• Address: Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang City, Banten 19120, Indonesia.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the contact centre address: contact.center@angkasapura2.co.id.
• Social Media: The airport maintains official pages on popular social networks (e.g., Instagram), where it publishes news and important updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, please contact your airline's representative office first. If you lost items within the terminal premises, contact the Lost and Found service. Current contacts for each terminal are best verified on the official website.
• Passenger Support Service: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the unified contact centre at the phone number listed above.

You can get to the main international airport of Jakarta, Soekarno-Hatta (CGK), in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located approximately 20 km west of the city centre; however, due to the famous traffic jams of the Indonesian capital, the trip may take from 1 to 2.5 hours. Always allocate extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours.

Public Transport

The most predictable method in terms of time is the Airport Rail Link express train (Kereta Bandara). It connects the airport with several stations in central Jakarta, including BNI City (near the Sudirman area) and Manggarai. The trains are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with Wi-Fi. This is a more expensive but reliable option to avoid traffic. A more budget-friendly alternative is the DAMRI shuttle buses. They operate on numerous routes connecting the airport with various districts of the city and even neighbouring towns. This is the cheapest way, but be prepared that travel time depends heavily on the traffic situation.

Taxis and Transfers

Taxis are a popular and convenient option. It is recommended to use official companies, such as Blue Bird, which operate by meter, or to order a car via popular Asian apps like Gojek and Grab. This allows you to know the fixed cost of the trip in advance. There are special counters for booking taxis at the airport. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly convenient if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or with family.

Car Rental and Parking

For those who feel confident driving in the conditions of an Asian metropolis, car rental is available. Offices of both international and local rental companies are present at the airport. The Soekarno-Hatta Airport territory has several parking zones, including short-term and long-term parking. Parking is paid, and the cost depends on the duration.

When planning your route, it is also worth considering that there are other airports in the region. For example, for domestic flights, it is sometimes more convenient to use Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, located closer to central Jakarta, or consider Husein Sastranegara Airport in neighbouring Bandung if that is your final destination.

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is a large and busy transport hub consisting of three main terminals. Understanding their structure and purpose will help you navigate easily and save time.

Terminals and their designation:

There are three main terminals operating at the airport: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.

• Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic flights of budget airlines. It is the oldest of the terminals and is divided into three sub-terminals (1A, 1B, 1C).
• Terminal 2 was historically the main international terminal, and now serves both domestic and some international flights, mainly low-cost carriers and SkyTeam alliance airlines. It also has three sub-terminals (2D, 2E, 2F).
• Terminal 3 is the newest, most modern, and largest. It is the main hub for the national carrier Garuda Indonesia and serves the majority of international flights, as well as some domestic ones.

Navigation and transfer between terminals:

Terminals 1 and 2 have a semi-circular shape, while Terminal 3 is a huge elongated building. To move between all three terminals, a free automated Skytrain operates. This is the most convenient and fastest way to get from one terminal to another. Stations are located directly at each terminal. Alternatively, free shuttle buses run, but they may take more time due to road traffic.

Departure, arrival, and control zones:

As in most major airports, departure zones are usually located on the upper floors, and arrival zones on the lower ones. Signs in English and Indonesian will help you navigate. It is recommended to allow at least 3 hours for check-in and control for international flights and about 2 hours for domestic ones. During peak hours, queues for passport control and security screening can be long, especially in Terminal 3 due to its size.

Navigation recommendations:

Key advice — verify in advance which terminal your flight departs from, as airlines may change terminals. Information can be found on the airline's website or on your ticket. Upon arriving at the airport, use the Skytrain for transfer. If you have a connecting flight, ensure you have enough time to transfer between terminals, pass passport control (if required), and undergo security screening again. A large number of shops and restaurants are concentrated in Terminal 3, so if you have time, this is the best place to wait for your flight.

The history of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is inextricably linked with the rapid growth of Jakarta and all of Indonesia. The decision to construct it was made in the 1970s when it became obvious that the old Kemayoran Airport could no longer cope with the increasing passenger flow, and the international Halim Perdanakusuma Airport was overloaded. The new airport was intended to become the country's main air gateway, a symbol of its development and modernity.

The official opening took place on 1 May 1985, when Terminal 1 began operations. The project was designed by the renowned French architect Paul Andreu, who also designed Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. A distinctive feature of the design was the inspiration drawn from traditional Indonesian architecture: the terminals resemble Javanese Pendopo pavilions with gardens and open spaces, creating a unique tropical resort atmosphere.

The airport's development proceeded at a rapid pace. By 1991, Terminal 2 was opened to serve international flights, and in 2009, the first phase of Terminal 3. The most massive project was the complete reconstruction and expansion of Terminal 3, which opened in its modern form in 2016. This gigantic and ultra-modern complex allowed Soekarno-Hatta Airport to compete with leading aviation hubs in Southeast Asia.

Among interesting facts from the airport's history, its name is worth noting. It is named in honour of two key figures in the country's history — the first President of Indonesia, Soekarno, and the first Vice President, Mohammad Hatta. Its IATA code — CGK — comes from the name of the Cengkareng district where it is located. Today, Soekarno-Hatta Airport is one of the busiest in the world, and its continuous modernisation, including the launch of the automated Skytrain in 2017 for inter-terminal connection, confirms its status as an important transport hub of global significance.

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport offers a wide range of services to make waiting for your flight as comfortable as possible. The terminals house numerous restaurants and cafes where you can taste both Indonesian cuisine dishes and familiar international snacks. For shopping enthusiasts, Duty-Free shops operate, as well as boutiques with clothing, souvenirs, and electronics.

Passengers can relax in comfortable waiting halls or utilise the services of VIP lounges, which offer a more secluded atmosphere, refreshments, and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous gadget charging stations allow you to stay connected at all times. For the convenience of travellers, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points are available where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure.

The airport cares about the health and well-being of its guests: there are medical points ready to provide first aid. Families with children will appreciate the presence of mother and child rooms equipped with everything necessary for baby care. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, special restrooms, and assistance services are provided, which are recommended to be booked in advance through the airline.

If you have a long layover, you can stay at one of the hotels located directly on the airport grounds or in the immediate vicinity. Business travellers have access to business centres and conference rooms where meetings can be held or work can be done in a quiet environment. Thus, Soekarno-Hatta Airport provides all the conditions for a pleasant and productive time.

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) offers passengers a rich selection of establishments for every taste and budget, allowing for a quick snack before departure or a full lunch or dinner. Gastronomic opportunities are mainly concentrated in Terminals 2 and 3, with the latter, being the most modern, boasting the greatest variety.

What and where to eat at the airport:

For those who want to get acquainted with local cuisine, Soekarno-Hatta Airport is a wonderful place. Here you can find restaurants offering authentic Indonesian dishes. Be sure to try Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Sate (meat skewers with peanut sauce), or aromatic Rendang. Establishments like Sate Khas Senayan or Bakmi GM offer high-quality and delicious national cuisine. Most of these restaurants are located in the departure zones (airside), after passing passport control.

If you prefer something more familiar, numerous international chains are at your service. In the terminals, you can easily find Starbucks, Burger King, KFC, and other popular coffee shops and fast-food restaurants. This is an excellent option for a quick and predictable snack. For pastry lovers, we recommend visiting local bakeries, such as Roti'O, whose aroma of freshly baked buns wafts through the entire terminal.

Special dietary preferences:

In Indonesia, as a country with a predominantly Muslim population, finding Halal food is effortless — the majority of establishments offer exactly such dishes by default. For vegetarians, Indonesian cuisine also offers many options, for example, Gado-Gado salad, vegetable curries, or rice with stewed vegetables (Sayur Lodeh). Most restaurants can prepare a dish without meat upon your request. Gluten-free options might be more challenging, but you can always choose rice-based dishes, grilled fish, or chicken without breading.

Opening hours and prices:

Many establishments, especially in the international Terminal 3, operate 24 hours a day to serve passengers on night flights. Prices vary: from budget options in food courts and fast-food outlets to moderate prices in full-service restaurants. Overall, eating at Jakarta airport is quite affordable compared to European or American airports.

Recommendations:

• For a quick snack: Starbucks coffee shop, Roti'O bakery, or any of the fast-food restaurants.
• For a full lunch: Indonesian cuisine restaurants located in the airside zone of Terminal 3, where you can sit quietly and enjoy the final taste of Indonesia before departure.

Planning a trip through a major international hub like Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta requires a little preparation. By following these tips, you can make your journey more comfortable and avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2 hours. The airport is large and often busy, so extra time will allow you to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass security screening without rushing.

Check-in and security. To save time, use online check-in for your flight. Be prepared in advance at security control: keep your boarding pass and passport handy, remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage, and pack liquids (up to 100 ml each) in a separate transparent bag.

Seat selection on the plane. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up freely and stretch your legs is more important to you, the best solution is an aisle seat. For maximum comfort, consider emergency exit seats, which often offer more space but may require an additional fee.

Hand luggage rules. It is prohibited to take sharp objects, weapons, explosives, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always check the rules of the specific airline, as they may have their own restrictions on the weight and dimensions of hand luggage.

Passengers with transfers. If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance if you need to transfer to another terminal. A free Skytrain shuttle runs between terminals. Ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination to avoid the need to collect and re-check it.

Customs control. Upon entering Indonesia, you will need to complete an Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD), which is recommended to be done online in advance. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready and honestly declare all goods subject to control.

Saving time and money. To avoid spending extra, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. Food at the airport can be expensive, so bringing a light snack is a good idea. Transfers from the airport (taxi or express train) are best booked via official apps or at counters in the arrival hall to avoid inflated prices.

In case of flight delay. First, contact your airline representative to find out the flight status and your rights (for example, to food vouchers or hotel accommodation). Soekarno-Hatta Airport has many cafes, shops, and lounge zones where you can comfortably spend time waiting for your flight.