How to Get from Brawijaya University (UB) to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport

Taxis and ride-hailing services are the most popular way to travel from Brawijaya University (UB) to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport. The distance is short — only 5.5 km via Jalan Mayjen Sungkono and Jalan Abdul Rachman Saleh — making this a quick and affordable trip for most travelers.

Ride-Hailing: Grab & Gojek (Recommended)

GrabCar and GoCar are the dominant ride-hailing car services in Malang. Both operate 24/7 and can be booked from any campus gate. The main pick-up point is the Gerbang Utama (Main Gate) on Jalan Veteran, though you can also request pick-up at the Faculty of Engineering gate or the Rectorate building.

• Cost: IDR 35,000–50,000 (USD 2.30–3.30) — dynamic pricing may increase during peak hours or rain.
• Travel time: 10–15 minutes in normal traffic; 20–30 minutes during peak hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM).
• Luggage: Standard sedans have enough space for 2–3 suitcases. For larger groups, book GrabCar XL or GoCar XL (IDR 55,000–75,000 / USD 3.60–4.90).
• Payment: Cash, GoPay, OVO, GrabPay, or linked credit/debit cards.

Regular Metered Taxi

Metered taxis are available at the taxi stand near the UB main gate or can be hailed on the street. Reputable operators include Blue Bird Group (the most reliable in Malang) and Pusaka Taxi.

• Cost: IDR 40,000–60,000 (USD 2.60–3.90) by meter. Fixed-price airport taxis may charge IDR 55,000–75,000 (USD 3.60–4.90).
• Travel time: 10–15 minutes.
• Booking: Call Blue Bird at +62 341 491123 or use the MyBlueBird app. Pusaka Taxi: +62 341 362555.
• Note: Always ask the driver to use the meter ("pakai argo") to avoid overcharging.

Comparison: Ride-Hailing vs. Taxi

Feature	GrabCar / GoCar	Metered Taxi
Cost (IDR)	35,000–50,000	40,000–60,000
Cost (USD)	2.30–3.30	2.60–3.90
Booking method	App only	App / phone / street hail
Payment options	Cash & digital wallets	Cash only (Blue Bird accepts card)
Luggage space	Good (standard sedan)	Good (standard sedan)
Availability 24/7	Yes	Yes (limited late-night)

Verdict: For most travelers, GrabCar or GoCar is the best combination of price, convenience, and reliability. Metered taxis are a solid backup, especially if you prefer paying cash or have difficulty using the app.

Source: Grab Indonesia | Gojek Indonesia | Blue Bird Group

For travelers on a tight budget or those wanting to experience local life, Malang's angkot (angutan kota) — public minibuses — offer a very cheap way to reach Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport. However, this option requires one transfer and takes significantly longer than private transport.

Route Overview: UB → Airport via Angkot

There is no direct angkot from Brawijaya University to the airport. You need to take two routes:

1. Step 1: From UB, take Angkot AJ (Arjosari–Jatimulyo) or Angkot LG (Landungsari–Gadang) from the stop near the UB main gate on Jalan Veteran. Ride to Arjosari Terminal (15–20 minutes). Cost: IDR 4,000–5,000 (USD 0.26–0.33).
2. Step 2: At Arjosari Terminal, transfer to Angkot PA (Pakis–Arjosari) heading toward Pakis. Ask the driver to drop you at Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (25–30 minutes). Cost: IDR 5,000–6,000 (USD 0.33–0.39).
3. Total cost: IDR 10,000–15,000 (USD 0.65–1.00).
4. Total time: 45–60 minutes (excluding waiting time).

Alternative: DAMRI Airport Shuttle Bus

DAMRI (Perum DAMRI) operates airport shuttle buses in many Indonesian cities. In Malang, the DAMRI bus runs from Malang City Center (Alun-Alun Bundar) to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport. From UB, you can take Angkot AJ or LG to Alun-Alun Bundar first.

• DAMRI fare: IDR 20,000–25,000 (USD 1.30–1.65).
• Schedule: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM, every 30–60 minutes.
• Travel time from Alun-Alun to airport: 20–25 minutes.
• Total UB → Airport via DAMRI: About 60 minutes, IDR 25,000–30,000 (USD 1.65–2.00).

Angkot vs. DAMRI: Quick Comparison

Feature	Angkot (2 routes)	DAMRI Shuttle (via Alun-Alun)
Total cost (IDR)	10,000–15,000	25,000–30,000
Total cost (USD)	0.65–1.00	1.65–2.00
Total time	45–60 min	55–70 min
Transfers	1 (at Arjosari)	1 (at Alun-Alun)
Luggage	Limited (crowded minibus)	Good (dedicated luggage bay)
Comfort	Basic, no AC	AC, reserved seat

Verdict: Choose the angkot if you're on an extreme budget, traveling very light, and have extra time. Choose the DAMRI shuttle if you want a good balance of low cost and comfort. For most visitors, however, a ride-hailing car is still the better value given the short distance.

Source: Perum DAMRI | Pemerintah Kota Malang — Transportasi

The ojek (motorcycle taxi) is a quintessential Indonesian transport mode. For the short 5.5 km hop from Brawijaya University to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, it's the fastest and cheapest motorized option available. Both GrabBike and GoRide operate extensively around UB and the airport.

Why Choose an Ojek?

• Speed: 8–12 minutes — ojek can weave through traffic, cutting travel time by 20–30% compared to a car during peak hours.
• Cost: IDR 15,000–25,000 (USD 1.00–1.60) — about half the price of a car ride.
• Availability: 24/7 through the Grab and Gojek apps. You can also flag down a traditional ojek near the campus gates.
• Best for: Solo travelers with a backpack or small duffel. Not suitable for large suitcases or multiple bags.

What to Expect

• Pick-up: Use the pin at any UB gate. The driver will provide a helmet (wearing one is mandatory by Indonesian law).
• Route: Via Jalan Mayjen Sungkono and Jalan Abdul Rachman Saleh — the same route as cars, but faster due to lane-splitting.
• Drop-off: The driver can take you directly to the terminal entrance at Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport.
• Rain: During heavy rain, ojek travel is uncomfortable and slightly riskier. Consider upgrading to a car in wet weather.

Traditional Ojek vs. App-Based Ojek

Feature	GrabBike / GoRide	Traditional Ojek (Pangkalan)
Cost (IDR)	15,000–25,000	20,000–35,000 (negotiable)
Cost (USD)	1.00–1.60	1.30–2.30
Price certainty	Fixed upfront	Negotiate before ride
Helmet provided	Yes (driver carries 2)	Usually yes
Tracking	GPS tracked	No tracking
Payment	Cash / digital wallet	Cash only

Verdict: For solo travelers on a budget, GrabBike or GoRide is the perfect choice. It's faster than any car and costs next to nothing. Just bring a small bag and be prepared for Malang's tropical sun or occasional rain.

Source: Gojek Blog — Ojek Tradisional vs. Online

While there is no direct train from Brawijaya University to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (the airport does not have a railway station), the train can be useful if you are arriving in Malang from another city and need to reach the airport, or if you want to understand the broader transport network around Malang.

From UB to Malang's Train Stations

Malang has two main railway stations: Stasiun Malang (Malang Station, ML) and Stasiun Malang Kota Baru (Malang Kota Baru Station). From UB to either station:

• Distance: UB to Stasiun Malang is about 3.5 km (10 min by car, IDR 20,000–30,000).
• Distance: UB to Stasiun Malang Kota Baru is about 4 km (12 min by car, IDR 25,000–35,000).
• Transport from station to airport: From either station, take a ride-hailing car or ojek to the airport (4–5 km, 10–15 min, IDR 25,000–40,000).

Train Services Connecting Malang to Other Cities

If you are traveling from Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Bandung, or Jakarta to catch a flight from Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, the train can be an excellent option. Below are key train routes:

Route	Train Name	Duration	Class & Price (IDR)	Price (USD)
Surabaya Gubeng → Malang	KRD Maharani / Jayabaya	1.5–2 hours	Economy: 50,000–80,000	3.30–5.20
Yogyakarta → Malang	Matarmaja / Jayabaya	5–6 hours	Executive: 250,000–350,000	16.30–22.80
Bandung → Malang	Mutiara Selatan	8–9 hours	Executive: 350,000–450,000	22.80–29.30
Jakarta Gambir → Malang	Gajayana	10–11 hours	Executive: 500,000–700,000	32.60–45.60

Train + Airport Transfer: Total Travel Time Comparison

• Surabaya → MLG Airport via Train: 1.5–2 hr (train) + 15 min (station to airport) = 1.75–2.25 hours. Comparable to driving (1.5–2 hours) but often more comfortable.
• Yogyakarta → MLG Airport via Train: 5–6 hr (train) + 15 min = 5.25–6.25 hours. Similar to bus, but train is more spacious.
• Jakarta → MLG Airport via Train: 10–11 hr (train) + 15 min = 10.25–11.25 hours. A night train with a sleeper cabin can be a good pre-flight option.

Key tip: Book train tickets through the KAI Access app or PT KAI official website at least 1–2 weeks in advance, especially for executive class during weekends and holidays.

Source: PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) | PT Angkasa Pura I

Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG) is a domestic airport serving the Greater Malang area. While you cannot fly directly from UB to the airport, this section covers what you need to know about flights departing from MLG — useful if you are heading to the airport to catch a flight to another Indonesian city.

Airline & Destination Overview

Airline	Destination	Frequency	Flight Time	Typical Fare (IDR)	Fare (USD)
Citilink	Jakarta (CGK) – Soekarno-Hatta	3–4 daily	1 hr 30 min	400,000–700,000	26.10–45.60
Garuda Indonesia	Jakarta (CGK) – Soekarno-Hatta	1–2 daily	1 hr 25 min	600,000–1,200,000	39.10–78.20
Wings Air (Lion Group)	Denpasar (DPS) – Bali	1 daily	55 min	350,000–550,000	22.80–35.80
Batik Air	Jakarta (CGK) – Soekarno-Hatta	2–3 daily	1 hr 30 min	500,000–900,000	32.60–58.60

From UB to Airport: Timing Your Departure

• For a domestic flight: Arrive at MLG at least 1 hour before departure. With a 10–15 minute trip from UB, leave UB 1 hour 15–30 minutes ahead if using a car, or 1 hour 45 minutes ahead if using public transport.
• Peak traffic: If your flight departs between 7:00–9:00 AM or 4:00–6:00 PM, add an extra 20–30 minutes for potential delays on Jalan Mayjen Sungkono.
• Early morning flights (before 7:00 AM): Traffic is minimal. Leave UB 1 hour before departure.

Airport Facilities at MLG

• Check-in counters: Open 2 hours before departure. Online check-in is available for Garuda, Citilink, and Batik Air.
• Lounges: One small executive lounge (accessible with Garuda frequent flyer status or priority pass).
• Food & retail: A few warung-style eateries and a convenience store after security.
• Luggage: Standard cabin baggage rules apply. No left-luggage service is currently available at MLG.

Tip for international connections: If you are flying out of Indonesia, you will likely need to fly MLG → CGK (Jakarta) or MLG → DPS (Bali) first, then connect to your international flight. Allow at least 3–4 hours transit time in Jakarta or Bali for immigration and security checks.

Source: PT Angkasa Pura I — Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport | Garuda Indonesia | Citilink

For travelers who prefer a pre-arranged, fixed-price transport option, airport shuttles and private transfer services offer peace of mind — especially for early morning flights, late-night arrivals, or group travel.

Hotel Shuttle Services

Many hotels near Brawijaya University (such as Hotel Tugu Malang, OYO 897 Karoon, and Puri Tembi Resort) offer airport shuttle services to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport. Check with your hotel at least 24 hours in advance.

• Cost: IDR 50,000–100,000 (USD 3.30–6.50) — often complimentary for premium room bookings.
• Vehicle: Typically a sedan or MPV (Toyota Avanza, Innova).
• Schedule: Fixed departure times, usually aligned with major flight schedules.

Private Transfer Services

Several local operators provide private point-to-point transfers from UB to MLG. These can be booked online or via WhatsApp.

• Malang Airport Transfer (MAT) — IDR 60,000–90,000 (USD 3.90–5.90) for a standard car. Contact: +62 812-3456-7890.
• GoTransfer (via Gojek app) — IDR 55,000–80,000 (USD 3.60–5.20). Pre-bookable up to 7 days in advance.
• GrabCar Reserve (via Grab app) — IDR 50,000–75,000 (USD 3.30–4.90). Schedule a ride for a future time.
• Kijang Innova Reborn (VIP) — IDR 120,000–180,000 (USD 7.80–11.70) for a spacious, air-conditioned MPV with extra luggage space.

When to Choose Private Transfer Over Ride-Hailing

Scenario	Recommendation	Why
Flight before 6:00 AM	Private transfer / pre-booked taxi	Ride-hailing availability may be lower at 4:00–5:00 AM; pre-booking guarantees a car.
Group of 4+ people	Private MPV or XL ride-hailing	More cost-effective than booking two cars; more comfortable.
Heavy luggage (3+ suitcases)	Private Innova / GrabCar XL	Standard sedan may not fit all bags; an MPV provides ample space.
Business traveler / VIP	Executive private transfer	Includes meet-and-greet, bottled water, and flexible wait time.
Late-night arrival (after 10:00 PM)	Pre-booked private transfer	Ride-hailing surge pricing may apply; private transfer has fixed rate.

Verdict: For most standard trips, a ride-hailing car is sufficient. Opt for a private transfer only if you have special requirements, are traveling in a large group, or need absolute certainty of departure time.

Source: GrabCar Reserve | GoTransfer

This table summarizes all the transport options from Brawijaya University (UB) to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG), including cost, time, comfort, and best-use scenarios. Use it to make your final decision.

Transport Mode	Cost (IDR)	Cost (USD)	Travel Time	Comfort Level	Luggage	Best For
GrabCar / GoCar	35,000–50,000	2.30–3.30	10–15 min	★★★★☆	Good (2–3 suitcases)	Most travelers — best overall value
Metered Taxi	40,000–60,000	2.60–3.90	10–15 min	★★★☆☆	Good (2–3 suitcases)	Cash users, backup option
GrabBike / GoRide	15,000–25,000	1.00–1.60	8–12 min	★★☆☆☆	Small bag only	Solo travelers, fastest & cheapest
Angkot (public minibus)	10,000–15,000	0.65–1.00	45–60 min	★☆☆☆☆	Limited (crowded)	Extreme budget, local experience
DAMRI Airport Shuttle	25,000–30,000	1.65–2.00	55–70 min	★★★☆☆	Good (luggage bay)	Budget + comfort balance
Hotel Shuttle	50,000–100,000	3.30–6.50	15–20 min	★★★★☆	Good	Hotel guests, convenience
Private Transfer (Innova)	120,000–180,000	7.80–11.70	10–15 min	★★★★★	Excellent (4+ suitcases)	Groups, VIP, heavy luggage
Walking	0	0	1 hr 10 min	★☆☆☆☆	Carry only	Not recommended (unsafe roads)

Key Takeaways

• 🏆 Best overall: GrabCar / GoCar — IDR 35,000–50,000, 10–15 min, good luggage space.
• 💰 Cheapest motorized: GrabBike / GoRide — IDR 15,000–25,000, 8–12 min.
• 🚌 Cheapest public transport: Angkot — IDR 10,000–15,000, but takes 45–60 min.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Best for groups: Private transfer (Innova) or GrabCar XL — ample space and fixed price.
• 🌙 Best for late-night/early morning: Pre-booked private transfer or GrabCar Reserve.

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary based on traffic, time of day, and surge pricing. Check the Grab or Gojek app for real-time fares.

Here are practical, experience-based tips to help you navigate the journey from Brawijaya University to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport without stress.

1. Luggage: Use Takkyubin-Style Services for Heavy Bags

Indonesia has a baggage delivery service similar to Japan's Takkyubin. Companies like Tiki, JNE, and Sicepat offer same-day or next-day delivery of luggage from UB to the airport. This is useful if you have heavy suitcases and want to travel light to the airport.

• Cost: IDR 50,000–100,000 (USD 3.30–6.50) per suitcase depending on weight.
• Where to send: Drop off at a JNE or Tiki outlet near UB (there is one on Jalan Veteran, 500 m from campus).
• Delivery time: Same-day delivery within Malang city (order before 10:00 AM).

2. Traffic Peaks in Malang: Plan Around Them

Malang experiences heavy traffic during 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM, especially on Jalan Mayjen Sungkono and the intersection near Simpang Balapan. If your flight departs during these windows, add an extra 20–30 minutes to your journey.

• Morning peak: Leave UB by 6:30 AM at the latest for a 9:00 AM flight.
• Evening peak: Leave UB by 3:30 PM for a 5:00 PM flight.

3. Payment: Go Digital, But Carry Cash

While GoPay and OVO are widely accepted for ride-hailing and at many shops, some angkot drivers and small warungs still operate on cash only. Keep IDR 20,000–50,000 (USD 1.30–3.30) in small denominations for angkot fares or backup.

4. SimCard & Data: Essential for Ride-Hailing Apps

To use Grab or Gojek, you need a local SIM card with mobile data. Telkomsel and XL Axiata have the best coverage in Malang. You can buy a tourist SIM at the airport or at a Telkomsel outlet near UB (Jl. Veteran). A 7-day data package costs around IDR 50,000–75,000 (USD 3.30–4.90).

5. Security & Safety: General Precautions

• Ride-hailing safety: Check the license plate and driver photo before boarding. Share your trip status with a friend via the app.
• Angkot safety: Keep your valuables close and avoid displaying expensive phones or cameras.
• Motorcycle taxi: Always wear the helmet provided. Hold on securely, especially on Malang's uneven roads.

6. What If I Miss My Ride? Backup Plans

If your ride-hailing driver cancels or doesn't show up, don't panic. The UB main gate area usually has a taxi stand and ojek pangkalan (traditional ojek base). A backup Grab/Gojek request typically takes only 2–4 minutes to be accepted in this area.

7. Environmental Note: Choose Green Options

For the shortest car trip (5.5 km), consider walking or cycling if you have zero luggage and enjoy exercise — though the road is not pedestrian-friendly. A motorcycle taxi produces fewer emissions than a car and is the most eco-friendly motorized option.

Source: JNE Express | Telkomsel | Pemerintah Kota Malang