On July 30, 2024, I traveled from Jakarta to Medan, Sumatra Island. I used the airport train to get from the airport to Medan city center. Here’s information about the boarding procedures based on my actual experience.
How to Ride the Airport Train at Kualanamu International Airport, Medan
Travel from Airport Arrival Gate to the Train Station
Upon exiting the arrival lobby, you will see signs directing you to public transportation. The signs will indicate “Public Transportation,” including not just trains but also buses. Follow these signs. As you approach the train and bus terminal, you’ll see a sign like this. Continue straight following the directions.
At the entrance to the terminal building, there’s a large display board showing the next departure time, final arrival time, and fare (40,000 Rupiah, approximately 400 yen). Proceed inside the building.
Train Ticket Purchase Procedure
Upon entering the terminal, walk straight ahead to find ticket vending machines. There were two machines available. The operation of these machines was the same as those at Jakarta’s airport train station, so it should be easy for anyone who has purchased tickets there before.
The procedure involves selecting the departure time, destination, and payment method. There are various payment options, but I chose credit card this time. The man in the suit on the left side of the photo is a staff member; he did most of the operation, asking passengers questions as he went.
Final Destination Medan Station for 40,000 Rupiah
The ticket price was 40,000 Rupiah. I had researched online beforehand, and previous articles by other travelers indicated a price of around 100,000 Rupiah. If it had been 100,000 Rupiah, I would have considered the bus as the cheapest option, but at 40,000 Rupiah, the train was definitely the best choice overall. Prices may vary depending on the season or time of day, so please check for the latest information if you plan to ride.
After the card payment is complete, a ticket and receipt will be issued. It was a ticket with a barcode that you scan at the turnstile to pass through. Although no specific seat reservation was made, it turned out to be assigned seating, and the price remained 40,000 Rupiah. This was different from Jakarta’s airport train, which had free seating.
Train Boarding Procedure
Once you have your ticket, proceed directly to the turnstiles. The waiting lobby is located in front of the turnstiles. There were plenty of seats, some with power outlets. There was also a convenience store and a cafe nearby. Wait here until the turnstiles open.
There were three platforms. The departure platform is number 2. Once the turnstiles open, the train will already be at the platform, so board your designated car. Once on the train, take your assigned seat. Although I didn’t choose my seat, there was ample space, and the seat next to me remained empty, allowing for a comfortable ride. The cabin was clean, the air conditioning worked well, and the seats were comfortable.
The train arrived at Medan Station in about 40 minutes after departure. Since it’s the terminal station, all passengers alight. Upon descending to the lower floor from the arrival platform, there are exits to both the left and right. Please use Google Maps or similar to confirm which direction leads to your destination. One side of the station square has a large shopping mall, which can serve as a landmark.
Upon exiting the station building, you’ll find many taxi touts. Never take an unsolicited “wild taxi.” Instead, use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek.
Conclusion
I’ve provided information on how to travel from Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, the largest city on Sumatra Island, to Medan city center using the airport train. Transportation information can change constantly, so always get the latest information.
