Travel behaviour transformations in Indonesia: Assessing the long-term impact of COVID-19 on mobility patterns

This study examined the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mobility patterns in Indonesia, focusing on the transition from pre-pandemic norms to the endemic phase. Using quantitative methods and retrospective data analysis, we explored changes in travel behaviour, including mode choice, trip frequency, and travel time. We identified travel behaviour in three phases: pre-pandemic, pandemic (March 2020 to the end of January 2022), and transition to endemic (the data collection period: July – August 2022). Our investigation of the shifts in travel behaviour across these periods enabled us to distinguish between temporary fluctuations and enduring, potentially long-term changes in behaviour. The empirical investigation revealed significant alterations in trip frequency that persisted during the endemic phase, suggesting that these changes in mobility are likely to continue. Factors influencing these shifts include socioeconomic characteristics, work modalities, and attitudes toward health protocols. This study contributes to the understanding of pandemic-induced travel behaviour transformations and provides insights for policymakers and transportation planners to adapt to these changes in the Southeast Asian context.