Jakarta’s provincial government plans to expand the mandate of public bus operator TransJakarta to include sea and air transport, with proposed regulatory changes increasing its authorised capital to IDR13.4 trillion from IDR5.225 trillion. The proposal was questioned by members of the Jakarta Legislative Council during a plenary session on October 7, particularly over the cost of expanding beyond bus services and the potential impact on existing fares and operations. TransJakarta recorded 329.2 million passenger journeys in the first nine months of 2026 and expects to reach 438.5 million for the full year.
The first phase involves TransJakarta taking over public boat services to the Thousand Islands by June 2027, with the expansion intended to improve connectivity for island residents and support local businesses and tourism. The operator is also considering establishing a subsidiary to manage the vessels. Governor Pramono Anung expects professional management to improve operational efficiency and keep fares affordable, while transport experts have suggested that public subsidies may be needed to maintain low prices.
Air transport remains a longer-term proposal, with helicopters among the options discussed, although no aircraft type or implementation plan has been confirmed. The proposal has prompted concerns over affordability and the suitability of helicopters for mass transit. Transport expert Deddy Herlambang has argued that investment in additional non-BRT buses operating outside dedicated bus rapid transit lanes would offer greater value for public transport users. The proposed expansion comes as Jakarta seeks to address mobility needs across a metropolitan area with an estimated population of 42 million.