Quick Answer
Best way: Take a taxi or rideshare (Grab / Gojek) from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport (DJB). The journey covers only 7–10 km and takes 15–25 minutes. Total cost ranges from 50,000–100,000 IDR ($3–7). No train or direct bus is available. For the cheapest option, use a motorcycle taxi (ojek) at 20,000–40,000 IDR ($1–3). If you are catching a flight, allow at least 1.5–2 hours from the terminal to the gate.
Train: No Direct Rail Connection
There is no active railway line connecting Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport. Jambi Province currently has very limited passenger rail service, and none of it serves the airport corridor. The nearest railway stations are in Jambi City (Stasiun Jambi) and Kenali Asam, but both are cargo-focused with no scheduled passenger trains to the airport.
Why No Train?
Sultan Thaha Airport is located just 7–10 km from Simpang Rimbo, a distance too short for a rail link. The airport itself is a regional domestic hub without a rail connection. Most passengers rely on road transport.
Alternative If You Prefer Rail Travel
If you are determined to use a train for part of your journey, you could take a taxi from Simpang Rimbo to Stasiun Jambi (about 6 km, 15 minutes), but no passenger trains currently operate from that station. The nearest active passenger station is in Palembang (about 5 hours away by road).
| Option | Total Time | Total Cost (IDR) | Total Cost (USD) | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi (direct) | 15–25 min | 50,000–100,000 | $3–7 | 0 |
| Motorcycle taxi (direct) | 10–20 min | 20,000–40,000 | $1–3 | 0 |
| Taxi to Stasiun Jambi + hypothetical train | 2+ hours | 150,000+ | $10+ | 2+ |
Verdict: Skip the train. A taxi or motorcycle taxi is faster, cheaper, and more reliable. For the latest rail updates in Sumatra, check PT KAI official website.
Domestic Flight: From Sultan Thaha Airport (DJB)
Sultan Thaha Airport (DJB) is a domestic airport serving Jambi Province. If you are traveling from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to the airport to catch a flight, here is everything you need to know.
Step-by-Step: Bus Terminal to Airport Terminal
- From Simpang Rimbo: Take a taxi or Grab/Gojek to the airport (15–25 min, 50,000–100,000 IDR).
- Arrive at Departure Gate: Sultan Thaha Airport is compact — check-in counters open 2 hours before departure.
- Security & Boarding: Security screening takes 5–10 minutes on average. The airport has one terminal with 4–5 gates.
Direct Destinations from DJB (2025)
- Jakarta (CGK & HLP) — Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, Super Air Jet. Flight time: ~1 hr 20 min.
- Batam (BTH) — Lion Air, Citilink. Flight time: ~1 hr 15 min.
- Padang (PDG) — Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air. Flight time: ~1 hr 10 min.
- Palembang (PLM) — Lion Air, Wings Air. Flight time: ~45 min.
Flight vs. Taxi: Total Journey Time
| Route | Transport to Airport | Flight Time | Airport Exit | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| To Jakarta (CGK) | 20 min taxi | 1 hr 20 min | 15 min | ~2 hr 10 min |
| To Batam (BTH) | 20 min taxi | 1 hr 15 min | 10 min | ~2 hr 00 min |
| To Padang (PDG) | 20 min taxi | 1 hr 10 min | 10 min | ~1 hr 55 min |
Important: Add 30–45 minutes for check-in and security. For travelers heading to Jakarta, the total door-to-door time (including ground transport) is about 2.5–3 hours. Compare this with a 10+ hour bus ride — flying is significantly faster for long distances.
For real-time flight schedules, visit FlightRadar24 or the official airport site Sultan Thaha Airport.
Bus & Public Transport: The Budget Option
There is no direct bus from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport. However, you can use a combination of angkot (shared minibus) services to reach the airport for very little money. This is the cheapest option but requires a transfer.
How to Use Angkot to Reach the Airport
- From Simpang Rimbo Terminal: Take an angkot heading toward Pasar Angso Duo (market) or Simpang Pulau. Fare: 5,000–7,000 IDR ($0.30–0.50). Time: 15–20 minutes.
- Transfer: At Pasar Angso Duo or Simpang Pulau, switch to an angkot heading toward Paal Merah or Kenali Besar — both pass by the airport road. Fare: 5,000–7,000 IDR ($0.30–0.50).
- Walk to Terminal: The angkot drops you at the main road (Jalan Lintas Sumatera) about 200–400 meters from the airport entrance. Walk 3–5 minutes to the terminal.
Cost & Time Breakdown
| Mode | Total Time | Total Cost (IDR) | Total Cost (USD) | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angkot (with transfer) | 30–45 min | 10,000–15,000 | $0.70–1 | Low (crowded, no AC) |
| Motorcycle taxi (Grab/Gojek) | 10–20 min | 20,000–40,000 | $1–3 | Medium |
| Taxi / rideshare car | 15–25 min | 50,000–100,000 | $3–7 | High (AC, private) |
Long-Distance Buses from Simpang Rimbo
Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal is a major hub for intercity buses in Jambi. If you are arriving by long-distance bus and need to connect to the airport, the terminal has a sheltered waiting area and 24-hour food stalls. Popular long-distance routes include:
- Jambi → Palembang (6–8 hours, 120,000–180,000 IDR / $7–11)
- Jambi → Padang (8–10 hours, 150,000–220,000 IDR / $9–14)
- Jambi → Jakarta (24+ hours, 350,000–500,000 IDR / $22–31)
Baggage note: Angkot minibuses have limited space — large suitcases may not fit. If you have heavy luggage, take a taxi or motorcycle taxi instead. For bus schedules, check Traveloka or RedBus Indonesia.
Taxi & Rideshare: The Most Practical Choice
For the vast majority of travelers, a taxi or rideshare (Grab / Gojek) is the best way to get from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport. It is fast, affordable, and comfortable.
Options Compared
| Type | Estimated Fare (IDR) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metered taxi (from terminal) | 50,000–80,000 | $3–5 | 15–25 min | Solo travelers, day trips |
| Grab / Gojek (car) | 45,000–70,000 | $3–4.50 | 15–25 min | Budget-conscious, app users |
| Grab / Gojek (motorcycle) | 20,000–40,000 | $1–3 | 10–20 min | Backpackers, solo with small bag |
| Fixed-price airport taxi | 80,000–100,000 | $5–7 | 15–25 min | Families, business travelers |
Where to Find a Taxi at Simpang Rimbo
The bus terminal has a designated taxi queue near the main entrance. Official terminal taxis are metered and painted blue or green. Alternatively, you can book a Grab or Gojek through the app — the pickup point is at the main terminal circle. Wait times are typically 3–7 minutes.
When to Choose This Option
- Late-night / early-morning flights: Taxis are available 24/7 at the terminal, though fares may be 20–30% higher between midnight and 5 AM.
- Family with children: A private car is safer and more comfortable, especially with car seats (request in advance).
- Heavy luggage: Taxis have ample trunk space for large suitcases.
- Business travelers: Fixed-price airport taxis offer receipts for expense claims.
Rideshare Tips
Grab and Gojek are widely used in Jambi. Download the app before arrival, and ensure your phone has a local SIM card or data. The fare is fixed at booking, so no haggling is needed. Tipping is optional but appreciated (5,000–10,000 IDR / $0.30–0.70).
For safety, always verify the license plate and driver name before boarding. Share your ride status with a friend via the app. Official info from Grab Indonesia and Gojek Indonesia.
Cost Comparison: All Transport Options at a Glance
Use this table to compare every possible way to travel from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport. Best option and cheapest option are highlighted.
| Mode | Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Best: Taxi / Rideshare Car | 15–25 min | 50,000–100,000 | $3–7 | 0 | Most travelers, comfort & speed |
| Motorcycle taxi (Grab/Gojek) | 10–20 min | 20,000–40,000 | $1–3 | 0 | Solo, light luggage, budget |
| ★ Cheapest: Angkot (public minibus) | 30–45 min | 10,000–15,000 | $0.70–1 | 1 | Very low budget, no luggage |
| Fixed-price airport taxi | 15–25 min | 80,000–100,000 | $5–7 | 0 | Business, families, guaranteed price |
| Grab/Gojek car (peak hour) | 20–35 min | 70,000–110,000 | $4.50–7 | 0 | When demand is high |
| Walking | 1.5–2 hr | 0 | $0 | 0 | Not recommended (unsafe, no sidewalk) |
Summary: For most travelers, a taxi or Grab/Gojek car offers the best balance of cost, time, and comfort. If you are on a very tight budget and have only a backpack, the motorcycle taxi is a great middle ground. The angkot is the cheapest but requires local knowledge and a transfer.
For the latest fares and to book tickets in advance, visit Traveloka or Gojek.
Traveler Tips & Experience
Real-world advice from frequent travelers on the Simpang Rimbo → Sultan Thaha Airport route. These tips will save you time, money, and stress.
1. Luggage: Use a Backpack If Possible
Motorcycle taxis (ojek) are the fastest way to the airport, but they can only accommodate one small bag or backpack. If you have a large suitcase, book a car — the trunk space in Indonesian taxis is limited compared to Western cars. For heavy luggage, consider using Takkyubin-style luggage delivery — though not yet widespread in Jambi, some couriers like JNE or SiCepat offer airport delivery for around 50,000–80,000 IDR ($3–5) if you book a day in advance.
2. Traffic: Peak Hours in Jambi
Jambi City experiences morning peak (7:30–8:30 AM) and evening peak (4:30–6:00 PM). During these times, the 15-minute taxi ride can stretch to 35–40 minutes. If your flight is between 7–9 AM, leave the terminal by 5:30 AM at the latest. Afternoon flights are generally smoother.
3. The Airport Experience
Sultan Thaha Airport is small but efficient. Check-in counters open 2 hours before departure and close 30 minutes before. There are a few Indomaret and Alfamart convenience stores past security, plus a small food court. Pro tip: Bring your own snacks — the selection is limited and prices are 20–30% higher than in town.
4. Navigating Simpang Rimbo Terminal
The bus terminal can be chaotic. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of touts offering "direct airport taxis" at inflated prices (300,000+ IDR). Always use the official taxi queue or book via app. The terminal has free Wi-Fi (sometimes unreliable) and public toilets (bring your own tissue).
5. Download These Apps Before You Arrive
- Gojek — motorcycle taxi & car rides, food delivery
- Grab — rideshare, taxi booking, payment
- Google Maps — offline maps work well in Jambi
- Traveloka — compare flight & bus tickets
6. Seasonal Considerations
During Ramadan and Lebaran (Eid), the terminal and airport are extremely busy. Book your transport at least 2–3 hours earlier than usual. During the rainy season (November–February), roads can flood — allow extra 30 minutes for delays. A taxi is safer than a motorcycle in heavy rain.
For more traveler experiences, check TripAdvisor forums or Lonely Planet's Jambi guide.
FAQs: Getting from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport
Is there a direct train from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport?
No, there is no direct train service. Jambi Province does not have an active railway line connecting to the airport. The most practical alternatives are taking a taxi (50,000–100,000 IDR / $3–7) or a motorcycle taxi (20,000–40,000 IDR / $1–3).
What is the fastest way to get from Simpang Rimbo to Sultan Thaha Airport?
The fastest way is by taxi or rideshare (Grab/Gojek). The journey covers only 7–10 km and takes approximately 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. A private taxi costs around 50,000–100,000 IDR ($3–7).
How much does a taxi cost from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport?
A regular metered taxi costs between 50,000 and 80,000 IDR ($3–5). A Grab/Gojek car is typically 45,000–70,000 IDR ($3–4.50). Fixed-price airport taxis at the terminal charge around 80,000–100,000 IDR ($5–7). Prices may increase during peak hours or late at night.
What is the cheapest way to get from Simpang Rimbo to Sultan Thaha Airport?
The cheapest way is by motorcycle taxi (ojek) via Grab or Gojek, costing 20,000–40,000 IDR ($1–3) and taking 10–20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take an angkot (shared minibus) for around 5,000–10,000 IDR ($0.30–0.70), but this requires a transfer and takes 30–45 minutes.
How long does it take to get from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport?
The travel time is 15–25 minutes by taxi or car, 10–20 minutes by motorcycle taxi, and 30–45 minutes by public angkot (with a transfer). The distance is approximately 7–10 km (4.5–6 miles) via Jalan Lintas Sumatera.
Are there any buses from Simpang Rimbo Bus Terminal to Sultan Thaha Airport?
There is no direct bus. However, you can take an angkot from the terminal to Pasar Angso Duo or Simpang Pulau, then transfer to another angkot heading to the airport. Total fare is about 10,000–15,000 IDR ($0.70–1) and takes 30–45 minutes.
What domestic flights are available from Sultan Thaha Airport?
Sultan Thaha Airport (DJB) serves direct flights to Jakarta (CGK & HLP), Batam (BTH), Padang (PDG), and Palembang (PLM). Airlines include Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, and Super Air Jet. Flight time to Jakarta is about 1 hour 20 minutes. There are no international flights as of 2025.
Is it safe to take a motorcycle taxi from Simpang Rimbo to the airport?
Yes, it is generally safe during daytime. Use reputable apps like Grab or Gojek so the ride is tracked. Always wear the helmet provided, keep your bag secure, and avoid riding at night if you have large luggage. Motorcycle taxis are best for travelers with only a backpack.