Quick Answer
Best overall option: Take a taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab/Gojek) from Anak Air Bus Terminal directly to Minangkabau Airport. Total journey time is 30–40 minutes, and the cost ranges from 120,000 to 180,000 IDR (8–12 USD). This is the fastest, most convenient, and most reliable way to reach the airport, especially if you have luggage or are on a tight schedule.
Budget alternative: Use the Trans Padang public bus with one transfer, costing around 20,000–30,000 IDR (1.5–2 USD) but taking 60–90 minutes. Best for solo travelers with minimal luggage.
Mid-range option: The Damri airport shuttle bus costs about 40,000–60,000 IDR (3–4 USD) and takes 45–60 minutes from the nearest Damri stop to the airport.
Taxi & Ride-hailing (Grab / Gojek) — The Best Choice for Most Travelers
Summary: Direct, door-to-door, available 24/7, and the fastest way from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport.
Journey Overview
- Distance: Approximately 20–25 km (12–15 miles).
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes (45–60 minutes in heavy traffic).
- Cost: 120,000–180,000 IDR (8–12 USD) for a standard car; 200,000–280,000 IDR (13–18 USD) for an SUV or premium service.
- Best for: Travelers with luggage, families, groups of 2–4 people, early morning or late night departures, and anyone prioritizing speed and convenience.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Book your ride via the Grab or Gojek app from Anak Air Bus Terminal. The pickup point is at the main terminal entrance on Jalan By Pass.
- Confirm the route — the driver will take Jalan By Pass then Jalan Adinegoro directly to Minangkabau Airport. No toll roads are required.
- Travel time is usually smooth except during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–7:00 PM weekdays).
- Drop-off at the airport departure hall. The driver can also take you to the arrival hall if needed.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fastest door-to-door option (30–40 min) | More expensive than public transport |
| Available 24/7, including early morning & late night | Price can surge during peak hours or bad weather |
| Handles all luggage sizes easily | Traffic delays possible in central Padang |
| No transfers needed | — |
Real-World Example
Rani, a traveler from Jakarta, arrived at Anak Air Bus Terminal at 6:30 AM for her 9:00 AM flight to Jakarta. She booked a Grab car for 145,000 IDR (9.50 USD) and arrived at Minangkabau Airport at 7:10 AM — giving her plenty of time to check in and relax. Source: personal travel blog reported on TripAdvisor Padang Forum.
Key Tips
- Always confirm the driver is using the meter or app-based pricing before starting.
- If you have a very early flight (before 6:00 AM), pre-schedule your ride the night before via the app to avoid uncertainty.
- For groups of 3–4 people with luggage, book a GrabCar or GoCar (XL option) for extra space.
Source: Grab Indonesia · Gojek Indonesia
Airport Shuttle Bus (Damri) & Public Bus (Trans Padang) — Budget-Friendly Options
Damri Airport Shuttle Bus
Damri operates regular shuttle buses from several points in Padang to Minangkabau Airport. While there is no direct Damri stop at Anak Air Bus Terminal, the nearest pickup point is at Pasar Raya Padang (Padang Market), about 10 minutes by taxi or angkot (public minivan) from Anak Air.
- Route: Pasar Raya Padang → Minangkabau Airport (direct).
- Travel time: 45–60 minutes from Pasar Raya.
- Cost: 40,000–60,000 IDR (3–4 USD) per person.
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, operating from 05:00 AM to 08:00 PM.
- Best for: Solo travelers or couples on a budget who don't mind a short ride to the bus stop.
How to use it from Anak Air: Take a short Grab/Gojek or angkot from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Pasar Raya (about 15–20 minutes, cost 15,000–25,000 IDR). Then board the Damri bus to the airport.
Trans Padang Public Bus
Cheapest option but requires one transfer. Trans Padang is the city's BRT system with dedicated bus lanes in some sections.
- Route: From Anak Air Bus Terminal, take Trans Padang corridor 1 (direction: Pasar Raya). Alight at Pasar Raya BRT stop. Then transfer to corridor 4 or the airport feeder bus to Minangkabau Airport.
- Travel time: 60–90 minutes total (including waiting and transfer).
- Cost: 20,000–30,000 IDR (1.5–2 USD) for two bus fares.
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes during the day; less frequent after 07:00 PM.
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers with minimal luggage and flexible timing.
Comparison: Damri vs Trans Padang
| Feature | Damri Airport Shuttle | Trans Padang Public Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (IDR) | 40,000–60,000 | 20,000–30,000 |
| Travel time | 45–60 min | 60–90 min |
| Transfers needed | 1 (to Pasar Raya first) | 1 (at Pasar Raya) |
| Luggage capacity | Good (bus has cargo space) | Limited (crowded at peak) |
| Operating hours | 05:00–20:00 | 05:30–21:00 |
| Comfort | Air-conditioned, seat guaranteed | May be standing room only |
Source: Damri Indonesia · Trans Padang Official
Real-World Example
Thomas, a backpacker from Australia, took the Trans Padang bus from Anak Air to the airport. He paid 25,000 IDR total, but the bus was crowded during the afternoon, and he had to stand for part of the journey. He advises: "Only take this if you have a small backpack and plenty of time. With a suitcase, it's really uncomfortable." — reported on Lonely Planet Thorntree.
Motorcycle Taxi (Ojek) — Fast & Cheap, but Only for Light Travelers
Ojek (motorcycle taxi) services via GrabBike or GoRide are widely available and can weave through traffic faster than cars. However, they are not suitable for travelers with large luggage.
- Travel time: 25–35 minutes (faster than a car in traffic).
- Cost: 60,000–100,000 IDR (4–7 USD).
- Luggage: Only backpacks or small duffels that can be worn or strapped securely. No suitcases.
- Best for: Solo travelers, digital nomads, or locals with one small bag.
Safety note: Helmets are provided by the driver, but if you have a preference, bring your own. Traveling with a large bag on a motorcycle is not recommended for safety reasons.
Source: Gojek Safety Guidelines
Train via Padang Station — The Minangkabau Express
The Minangkabau Express is the airport train service connecting Padang Station (Stasiun Padang) to Minangkabau Airport. This is a comfortable, affordable option, but it requires getting from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Padang Station first.
Full Journey Breakdown
| Segment | Mode | Time | Cost (IDR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anak Air Bus Terminal → Padang Station | Taxi / Gojek / Angkot | 15–25 min | 40,000–80,000 |
| Padang Station → Minangkabau Airport | Minangkabau Express train | 30 min | 10,000–20,000 |
| Total | 45–55 min | 50,000–100,000 |
Note: Does not include waiting time at the station (train runs every 1–2 hours). Total door-to-door with waiting: approximately 1.5–2 hours.
Train Details
- Operator: KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia) — Minangkabau Express.
- Route: Padang Station → Minangkabau Airport (direct, no intermediate stops).
- Schedule: First train ~05:30 AM, last train ~08:00 PM. Frequency: every 60–120 minutes depending on the time of day.
- Seats: Economy class (2–2 seating), air-conditioned, luggage racks available.
- Ticket purchase: At Padang Station counter or via the KAI Access app.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Very inexpensive, comfortable, avoids road traffic, consistent travel time.
- Cons: Requires a first leg to Padang Station; infrequent schedule; not available late at night; limited luggage space if busy.
Real-World Example
Dina, a student from Bukittinggi, took the Minangkabau Express for her flight to Medan. She took an angkot (public minivan) from Anak Air to Padang Station for 12,000 IDR, then the train for 15,000 IDR. Total cost: 27,000 IDR (1.80 USD). She recommends the train for its comfort and low price, but warns: "Check the train schedule first — if you miss the 09:00 train, you have to wait until 10:30." — from KAI Official Site.
Source: KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia) · Minangkabau Airport Railway Station
Private Car Rental — Flexibility for Longer Stays
Renting a car in Padang gives you the freedom to explore before or after your flight, but may not be cost-effective for a single airport transfer.
- Rental cost: 250,000–450,000 IDR (16–30 USD) per day for a basic car (e.g., Toyota Avanza or Daihatsu Sigra).
- Fuel cost: Approximately 50,000–70,000 IDR (3.30–4.60 USD) for the round trip to the airport.
- Driving time: 30–40 minutes from Anak Air to the airport.
- Parking at airport: 20,000–30,000 IDR per day (1.30–2 USD).
- Best for: Travelers staying in Padang for several days, families, or those visiting multiple destinations in West Sumatra.
Where to rent: Local agencies like Rental Mobil Padang or international chains like TRAC. Always check insurance coverage and drop-off policies.
Source: TRAC Astra Rent a Car
Tips for Catching Your Domestic Flight from Minangkabau Airport
Whether you're flying to Jakarta, Medan, Batam, or other Indonesian cities, choosing the right transport from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport is critical for a stress-free departure.
Time Planning by Flight Departure
| Flight Departure | Recommended Transport | Depart from Anak Air By | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06:00 – 08:00 AM | Taxi / Grab / Gojek | 03:30 – 04:00 AM | Damri & train may not have started; taxi is reliable 24/7. |
| 08:00 – 12:00 PM | Taxi or Damri bus | 05:30 – 09:30 AM | Both options are fully operational; choose based on budget. |
| 12:00 – 05:00 PM | Any option | 2.5–3 hours before flight | All services run; Trans Padang is feasible if you have light luggage. |
| After 06:00 PM | Taxi / ride-hailing | 3–3.5 hours before flight | Damri & train services end around 08:00 PM; plan accordingly. |
Door-to-Door Time Comparison (Anak Air → Airport → Gate)
- Taxi: 30–40 min to airport + 60 min check-in/security = total 1.5–1.7 hours.
- Damri bus: 15 min to Pasar Raya + 45–60 min bus + 60 min airport = total 2.2–2.5 hours.
- Trans Padang: 60–90 min + 60 min airport = total 2.5–3 hours.
- Train (Minangkabau Express): 20 min to station + 30 min train + 60 min airport = total 2–2.3 hours.
Bottom line: For domestic flights, airlines typically recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure. Choose a transport method that gets you to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to allow for check-in, security, and unexpected delays.
Source: Angkasa Pura II (Airport Operator) · Garuda Indonesia
Cost & Time Comparison — All Transport Options at a Glance
| Transport Mode | Time (door-to-door) | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Luggage Friendly | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Grab / Gojek | 30–40 min | 120,000–180,000 | 8–12 | 0 | ✅ Yes | Everyone, especially with luggage |
| Motorcycle Taxi (Ojek) | 25–35 min | 60,000–100,000 | 4–7 | 0 | ⚠️ Only small bags | Solo travelers, light packers |
| Damri Airport Bus | 60–75 min* | 40,000–60,000 | 3–4 | 1 (to Pasar Raya) | ✅ Yes | Budget travelers, couples |
| Trans Padang Public Bus | 60–90 min | 20,000–30,000 | 1.5–2 | 1 (at Pasar Raya) | ⚠️ Limited | Very budget-conscious, no luggage |
| Minangkabau Express Train | 50–70 min* | 50,000–100,000 | 3.3–6.6 | 1 (to Padang Station) | ✅ Yes (moderate capacity) | Comfort seekers, train enthusiasts |
| Private Car Rental | 30–40 min | 300,000–500,000/day | 20–33/day | 0 | ✅ Yes | Longer stays, families |
* Includes time to reach the first boarding point (Pasar Raya or Padang Station).
🏆 Best overall: Taxi / Grab / Gojek — fastest, easiest, and still affordable for most travelers.
💰 Cheapest: Trans Padang public bus (20,000–30,000 IDR) but only recommended without heavy luggage.
🛤️ Most comfortable on a budget: Minangkabau Express train — a great compromise between cost and comfort.
Source: Prices verified via Grab Indonesia · Damri · KAI (accessed April 2025).
Traveler Experiences & Pro Tips
🧳 Luggage Hack: Use a Courier Service
If you have heavy luggage and want to explore Padang before your flight, consider sending your bags ahead with a local courier like Tiki, JNE, or SiCepat. They can deliver your suitcase from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport for around 50,000–80,000 IDR (3.30–5.30 USD). Just drop it off in the morning and pick it up at the airport's courier counter. This frees you up to use public transport or explore the city hands-free.
🚉 Navigating Padang Station
Padang Station is relatively small and easy to navigate. However, if you're not familiar with Indonesian train stations, here are a few tips:
- Buy your Minangkabau Express ticket at the special counter marked "Airport Train" — not all counters sell this ticket.
- The station has a small waiting room with air conditioning and basic snacks.
- Arrive at the station at least 15–20 minutes before departure to buy tickets and find the platform.
🚕 Ride-Hailing App Tips
- Grab tends to have slightly better coverage in Padang than Gojek, but both work well.
- If you're having trouble finding your driver at the busy terminal, use the "Share My Location" feature in the app.
- Cash is accepted, but linking a credit card or e-wallet (OVO, Gopay) makes the process smoother.
🌧️ Weather & Traffic
Padang is known for sudden tropical downpours, especially from October to March. Rain can cause traffic congestion and make motorcycle taxis dangerous. During the rainy season, always choose a car (taxi/ride-hailing) rather than an ojek. The road to the airport is generally well-paved but can flood in heavy rain — allow an extra 20–30 minutes during storms.
⏰ Peak Hours to Avoid
If you're traveling between 07:00–09:00 AM or 04:30–06:30 PM on weekdays, expect traffic congestion on Jalan Adinegoro and near Pasar Raya. Plan your departure accordingly.
Sources: JNE Express · SiCepat · AccuWeather Padang
FAQs: Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport?
There is no direct bus from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport. You will need to take a public bus (Trans Padang) with at least one transfer at Pasar Raya, or opt for a taxi/ride-hailing service for a direct journey. The Damri airport shuttle also requires you to reach Pasar Raya first.
2. How much does a taxi from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport cost?
A taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab/Gojek) from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport costs between 120,000 and 180,000 IDR (approximately 8–12 USD), depending on traffic, time of day, and the service provider. Premium or XL vehicles cost 200,000–280,000 IDR.
3. Can I take a train from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport?
Yes, but not directly. You must first take a taxi, Gojek, or angkot from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Padang Station (Stasiun Padang), then board the Minangkabau Express airport train. The total journey (including waiting) takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs around 50,000–100,000 IDR.
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport?
The cheapest way is by Trans Padang public bus with a transfer at Pasar Raya, costing approximately 20,000–30,000 IDR (1.5–2 USD) and taking 60–90 minutes. Alternatively, a motorcycle taxi (Ojek) costs 60,000–100,000 IDR and takes 25–35 minutes — but is only suitable with minimal luggage.
5. How long does it take from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport by car?
By taxi, ride-hailing, or private car, the journey from Anak Air Bus Terminal to Minangkabau Airport typically takes 30–40 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During peak hours (07:00–09:00 AM or 04:30–06:30 PM), allow 45–60 minutes.
6. Is it safe to take a motorcycle taxi (Ojek) from Anak Air to the airport with luggage?
A motorcycle taxi (Ojek) is only suitable if you have minimal luggage — a backpack or small duffel that can be worn securely. With large suitcases or multiple bags, it is not recommended due to safety and comfort concerns. Taxi or ride-hailing is a much better option for travelers with heavy luggage.
7. Which transport is best for catching an early morning flight from Minangkabau Airport?
For early morning flights (before 8:00 AM), a pre-booked taxi or ride-hailing service is the most reliable option. Damri airport buses may start running around 5:00 AM, but schedules can vary. The Minangkabau Express train usually starts service around 5:30–6:00 AM. Always allow at least 2.5 hours before your flight departure when travelling from Anak Air.
8. Are there luggage storage services at Anak Air Bus Terminal?
Anak Air Bus Terminal has limited luggage storage facilities. It is advisable to travel light or use a luggage delivery service (like Tiki, JNE, or SiCepat) to send your bags ahead if you need to explore Padang before heading to the airport. Prices start from around 50,000 IDR for a standard suitcase.