A Complete Flight Guide to Kundasang: Best Airline Choices and Travel Tips

Traveloka MY
29 Dec 2024 - 7 min read

Kundasang is a breathtaking destination located in the foothills of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah. It is known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic mountain views. This charming town is home to attractions such as the Desa Dairy Farm, also known as the "New Zealand of Malaysia," the Kundasang War Memorial, and the Mesilau Nature Park, offering endless opportunities for nature enthusiasts. With its serene landscapes and unique local culture, flights to Kundasang is a must for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat.

Direct Flights to Kundasang

Kundasang does not have its own airport; the nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located about 90 kilometres away. BKI serves as the main gateway to Sabah among the other airports in Sabah and provides access to Kundasang through a scenic drive of approximately two hours.

Although there are no direct flights to Kundasang itself, Kota Kinabalu International Airport is well-connected to major cities in Malaysia and international destinations. Travellers can fly directly to Kota Kinabalu from cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, Singapore, Manila, and Seoul.

Key airlines offering Kundasang flight via direct routes to Kota Kinabalu include:

Malaysia Airlines
AirAsia
Scoot
Philippine Airlines
Korean Air

Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia dominate domestic routes within Malaysia, while international travellers can choose from airlines like Scoot for budget-friendly fares or Korean Air for premium long-haul service.

Airport in Kundasang

As mentioned before, Kundasang does not have its own airport but the nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located about 90 kilometres away. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and a modern gateway to Sabah. It features two terminals: Terminal 1 for international and full-service domestic flights and Terminal 2 for budget airlines.

The airport is equipped with:

Comfortable lounges for relaxation.
Free Wi-Fi and charging stations for travelers.
Duty-free shops and local souvenir outlets.
Prayer rooms and baby care facilities to cater to diverse needs.

Restaurants in/Near the Airport

At Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Travelers can enjoy a variety of dining options, including:

OldTown White Coffee for Malaysian classics.
Starbucks for a quick caffeine fix.
Asian Delights Café offers local and regional dishes.

Outside the airport, there are many eateries along the route to Kundasang, including restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Sabah cuisine.

Transportation to and from the Airport

Getting from Kota Kinabalu Airport to Kundasang is convenient:

Car Rentals: Available at the airport, providing flexibility for the scenic drive to Kundasang.
Private Transfers: Pre-booked cars or vans offer direct transportation.
Taxis and E-hailing Services: Widely available, though prices may vary.
Public Buses: Limited availability; best for budget travellers willing to combine routes to reach Kundasang.

Top Airlines Offering Flights to Kundasang

While Kundasang itself does not have an airport, travellers heading to this destination must first fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), the gateway to Sabah. From BKI hub, it’s a scenic two-hour drive to Kundasang, making the flight to Kota Kinabalu a critical part of the journey. Here’s a look at the top airlines offering flights to Kota Kinabalu, all you can book via Traveloka.

1. Malaysia Airlines

Malaysia Airlines is a full-service airline renowned for its exceptional hospitality and comfort. Flights to Kota Kinabalu include complimentary meals, which often feature Malaysian-inspired dishes and access to a wide range of in-flight entertainment options. Economy-class travellers enjoy generous legroom, while business-class passengers can experience premium seating and lounge access.

The airline’s baggage policy includes 20 kg of checked luggage for economy class and 30 kg for business class, along with a 7 kg carry-on allowance. Ticket prices typically range from MYR350 to MYR660 for economy class, making Malaysia Airlines a great option for those seeking a blend of comfort and value.

2. AirAsia

As a budget airline, AirAsia is a top choice for travellers looking for affordable flights to Kota Kinabalu. Ticket prices often start as low as MYR80 for a one-way trip, though add-ons such as meals, seat selection, and baggage can increase the total cost.

The airline allows a 7 kg carry-on allowance, and checked baggage must be purchased separately, with options ranging from 15 kg to 40 kg. Despite its budget-friendly fares, AirAsia provides punctual service and the option to customize your experience, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious travellers.

3. Scoot

Scoot, a low-cost carrier owned by Singapore Airlines, offers flights to Kota Kinabalu from international hubs like Singapore. Known for its affordable fares, Scoot provides a no-frills travel experience with the option to add services like in-flight meals, extra legroom, and Wi-Fi.

The carry-on baggage allowance is 10 kg, and checked baggage is available as an add-on, starting at 20 kg. Ticket prices typically range from MYR270 to MYR530, making Scoot an attractive option for travellers prioritizing budget-friendly fares without compromising reliability.

4. Philippine Airlines

For travellers flying from the Philippines, Philippine Airlines offers a comfortable and full-service experience to Kota Kinabalu. The airline includes complimentary meals, in-flight entertainment, and spacious seating in all classes. Economy-class passengers are allowed 25 kg of checked baggage and a 7 kg carry-on allowance, while premium cabin travellers enjoy even more generous allowances. Ticket prices typically start at MYR660, offering excellent value for those seeking a smooth and all-inclusive travel experience.

5. Korean Air

Korean Air provides a premium travel option for long-haul flights to Kota Kinabalu, catering to travellers from South Korea and beyond. The airline is known for its top-notch service, with attentive cabin crew, delicious meals tailored to international tastes, and advanced in-flight entertainment systems.

Economy-class passengers enjoy 23 kg of checked baggage and 12 kg carry-on allowance, while business-class travellers receive enhanced benefits such as flatbed seats and access to exclusive lounges. Prices for economy-class tickets start at MYR1,320, reflecting the airline’s premium offerings and high standards.

6. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is synonymous with luxury and reliability, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a seamless journey to Kota Kinabalu. The airline offers spacious seating, award-winning in-flight dining, and an extensive entertainment library.

Economy-class passengers are entitled to 30 kg of checked baggage and a 7 kg carry-on allowance, while business-class customers enjoy enhanced baggage allowances and exclusive amenities. Ticket prices typically range from MYR880 to MYR1,500, depending on the season and booking class, making it a premium yet worthwhile option for travellers.

How Much Does in Average Flight to Kundasang Cost?

Flights to Kundasang require flying to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), as Kundasang itself does not have an airport. The average cost of flights depends on the point of departure, airline, and booking conditions:

From Kuala Lumpur: Prices typically range from MYR170 to MYR700 for economy-class tickets, with budget airlines like AirAsia offering lower fares and full-service airlines like Malaysia Airlines on the higher end.
From Singapore: Ticket prices range between MYR260 and MYR800, with options like Scoot for budget travel and Singapore Airlines for premium experiences.
From Bangkok and Regional Cities: Flights usually range from MYR440 to MYR1,100, depending on the airline and season.
From Long-Haul Destinations: For cities like Seoul or Manila, expect fares from MYR800 to MYR1,700 in economy class.

It is important to note that there are factors influencing ticket prices, such as:

Travel Season: Prices peak during festive seasons (Chinese New Year, school holidays, Christmas) and drop significantly during off-peak months like February and September.
Advance Booking: Booking tickets 2–3 months in advance can save up to 30–50% on fares.
Seat Class: Economy fares are more affordable, while business class fares can cost 2–4 times more.

Expect higher prices during holidays and peak travel times, but off-peak periods often feature promotional fares and discounts. Make sure to always explore Traveloka to find the best deals and discounts for your desired flights!

How Long Does It Take to Fly to Kundasang?

As flights to Kundasang involve landing at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, travel times vary based on departure cities:

From Kuala Lumpur: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes for direct flights.
From Singapore: Around 2 hours 15 minutes.
From Bangkok: Typically 3 hours for a direct flight.
From Seoul or Manila: Long-haul flights take 4–6 hours.

Remember that layovers and flight routes can impact the total travel time. For a smoother journey, opt for direct flights whenever possible. Once in Kota Kinabalu, travellers will need an additional 2-hour scenic drive to reach Kundasang.

Best Time to Book Your Flight to Kundasang for the Cheapest Deals

The cheapest time to book flights to Kundasang (via Kota Kinabalu) is during off-peak travel periods, such as February to April, which is after the Chinese New Year rush. September to November before the holiday season kicks in can also be the best time to book your flight.

For the best deals, book flights 8–12 weeks in advance of your intended travel date. Airlines often release promotional fares midweek, so checking prices on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can yield better deals. Avoid booking during school holidays or festive periods unless absolutely necessary, as prices tend to surge significantly.

How to Find the Best Deals on Flights to Kundasang

Finding affordable flights requires a combination of tools, strategies, and flexibility. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1.
Use Flight Comparison Tools. Platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines. Use the “flexible dates” option to identify the cheapest travel days.
2.
Set Fare Alerts. Sign up for fare alerts on travel apps to get notified of price drops for flights to Kota Kinabalu. Apps like Hopper can predict the best times to book.
3.
Monitor Airline Promotions. Follow airlines like Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia on social media or subscribe to their newsletters to stay updated on flash sales and promotional campaigns.
4.
Leverage Loyalty Programs. Earn and redeem points through airline loyalty programs such as Enrich (Malaysia Airlines) or credit card travel rewards programs. Points can often be used to reduce ticket costs.
5.
Take Advantage of Credit Card Offers. Many credit cards offer travel-related discounts, cashback, or instalment payment plans. Some cards also provide free travel insurance or lounge access as additional perks.
6.
Consider Budget Airlines. Airlines like AirAsia and Scoot offer competitive fares, especially for short-haul flights. Be sure to account for additional costs like baggage and meals when comparing prices.
7.
Book Connecting Flights Strategically. While direct flights are convenient, connecting flights may sometimes be cheaper. Consider layovers that don’t extend your travel time excessively.
8.
Travel During Off-Peak Hours. Early-morning or late-night flights are often cheaper than midday options.

By using these strategies, you can find budget-friendly flights to Kundasang and ensure a cost-effective journey to the stunning landscapes of Kundasang. With a variety of airlines catering to diverse budgets and preferences, planning your trip to Kundasang via Kota Kinabalu is straightforward and hassle-free.Book your Kundasang flights now with Traveloka, where you can also find the best deals for hotels and tourist attraction tickets, all at once. With only a few taps away, Traveloka helps you to make your dream holiday come true!

Discover flight with Traveloka

Wed, 14 May 2025

Batik Air Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 154.95

Mon, 26 May 2025

AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)

Tawau (TWU) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 63.25

Tue, 20 May 2025

Batik Air Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur / Subang (SZB) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Start from RM 153.00

In This Article

• Direct Flights to Kundasang
• Airport in Kundasang
• Restaurants in/Near the Airport
• Transportation to and from the Airport
• Top Airlines Offering Flights to Kundasang
• 1. Malaysia Airlines
• 2. AirAsia
• 3. Scoot
• 4. Philippine Airlines
• 5. Korean Air
• 6. Singapore Airlines
• How Much Does in Average Flight to Kundasang Cost?
• How Long Does It Take to Fly to Kundasang?
• Best Time to Book Your Flight to Kundasang for the Cheapest Deals
• How to Find the Best Deals on Flights to Kundasang

Flights Featured in This Article

Wed, 14 May 2025
Batik Air Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)
Start from RM 154.95
Book Now
Mon, 26 May 2025
AirAsia Berhad (Malaysia)
Tawau (TWU) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)
Start from RM 63.25
Book Now
Tue, 20 May 2025
Batik Air Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur / Subang (SZB) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)
Start from RM 153.00
Book Now
Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe

Traveloka Sdn Bhd (Registration No. 201501003122), Level 14 Tower 2, Menara Kembar Bank Rakyat, 33 Jalan Rakyat Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Copyright © 2025 Traveloka. All rights reserved