Evaluation of tourist transportation Fare in Kawasan Strategis Pariwisata Nasional of Indonesia (Case study: Kawah Ijen tourist transportation)

The National Tourism Strategic Area (KSPN) of Ijen, particularly Kawah Ijen, is served by tourism transport operated by Perum DAMRI on the Jember–Kawah Ijen and Banyuwangi–Kawah Ijen routes. In 2024, transport fares underwent three adjustments as part of a trial to gauge public response before establishing the final commercial fare. Therefore, an evaluation based on vehicle operating costs (VOC) and load factors is required to determine fares that reflect actual travel costs. This study applies the VOC calculation method stipulated in the Decree of the Minister of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia No. KM 251 of 2022. Secondary data were obtained from the operator, including operational, direct cost, and indirect cost data. VOC calculations were conducted under both 100% load factor and existing load factor conditions. The results indicate that fares under a 100% load factor are IDR 60,826 for the Jember route and IDR 55,129 for the Banyuwangi route. Under existing load factor conditions, the fares increase to IDR 209,746 and IDR 98,444, respectively. These findings demonstrate that load factor and travel distance significantly affect public transport fares and provide a basis for operational planning and fare-setting policies in the Ijen Tourism Strategic Area. Keywords: KSPN Ijen; Kawah Ijen Public Transport; vehicle operating cost; Public Transport Fare.