Lawas is a hidden gem in the northernmost part of Sarawak, Malaysia. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and tranquillity. It’s safe to say that Lawas is one of the dream destinations for adventure seekers, nature lovers, or simply casual travellers. Many people in Malaysia also often refer to Lawas as the gateway to the highlands of Ba’kelalan and Long Semadoh.

You’ll find popular attractions such as Tropical Rainforests, Trusan River for kayaking, and Merarap Hot Springs, where visitors can rejuvenate mineral-rich waters. The region is also known for its unique buffalo races, a cultural highlight that draws visitors annually. Whether it’s trekking in the mountains and breathing the fresh weather in Lawas, experiencing local markets, or exploring serene villages, Lawas is an unmissable destination for the curious traveller.

Lawas is served by the Lawas Airport (LWY), a small yet functional hub that connects this remote region to the rest of Malaysia. Strategically located close to the town centre, Airport Lawas provides a convenient entry point for both domestic and international travellers.

Lawas primarily caters to domestic travellers, with regular flights from major Malaysian cities such as Kota Kinabalu, Miri, and Kuching. Direct flights are typically short, making it a convenient destination for weekend getaways or short trips. For international tourists, connecting flights via Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) or Miri Airport (MYY) are the most common routes.

Currently, MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, is the main airline operating direct flights to Lawas. Known for its reliability and comfortable services, MASwings provides seamless connectivity to this quaint town. Seasonal promotions and affordable ticket prices make it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.

Though compact, Lawas Airport offers all the essential amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for travellers. Its single runway accommodates turboprop planes, which are ideal for the shorter routes it serves. The airport's operations are efficient, reflecting the warmth and hospitality of Sarawak.

You will find facilities at the airport:

While the airport itself has limited dining options, you can find several small eateries and cafes within a short distance. Warung Sedap Lawas and Tepi Sungai Cafe are popular choices for local delicacies such as Laksa Sarawak and Nasi Lemak. Travelers looking for a quick snack will also find convenience stores near the airport.

Lawas Airport offers several transportation options for arriving travellers:

As Malaysia's national carrier and a member of the Oneworld alliance, Malaysia Airlines offers reliable services to Lawas. The airline operates flights from key Malaysian cities such as Miri, Kota Kinabalu, Bakelalan, and Limbang to Lawas Airport (LWY). Passengers are allowed one piece of carry-on baggage weighing up to 7 kg. Checked baggage allowances vary depending on the route and class of travel; it's advisable to confirm specifics during booking. Ticket prices are generally affordable, with one-way fares from Kota Kinabalu starting at approximately RM 134.

For budget-conscious travellers, AirAsia is a popular choice. This low-cost carrier offers flights to Lawas from cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. AirAsia is renowned for its affordable ticket prices, making it a great option for those looking to explore Lawas without breaking the bank. Despite being a budget airline, AirAsia maintains a high standard of service and on-time performance.

MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, is the primary airline operating flights to Lawas. MASwings specializes in serving rural areas within East Malaysia, connecting smaller towns and remote regions to larger urban centres. MASwings operates flights to Lawas using ATR 72-500 aircraft, which are well-suited for short-haul regional flights. Passengers are allowed one piece of carry-on baggage weighing up to 7 kg with maximum dimensions of 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm.

The cost of flights to Lawas varies based on several factors, including the departure location, travel season, booking time, and seat class. For instance, one-way flights from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas can start as low as RM 134. Flights from Kuching to Lawas have been found starting at approximately RM 190.

Peak travel seasons, such as school holidays and festive periods, often see higher ticket prices due to increased demand. Conversely, travelling during off-peak times can result in more affordable fares.

Booking flights well in advance typically offers better pricing. Airlines often release seats at lower prices, which increase as the departure date approaches and availability decreases. Economy class tickets are generally more affordable compared to business class. The additional amenities and services in higher classes contribute to the increased cost.

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

The flight duration to Lawas depends on the point of departure and the number of stopovers, as most flights to Lawas involve connecting flights through Kota Kinabalu or Miri. Here’s an overview of typical flight times:

Booking flights to Lawas at the right time can lead to substantial savings. To secure the best deals, plan to book your tickets at least 6-8 weeks in advance, as airlines typically offer discounted fares during this window.

Travelling midweek, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, can also result in lower ticket prices since demand tends to be lower compared to weekends. Timing your travel during off-peak seasons, such as March or November, is another effective way to avoid the surge in prices seen during public holidays, school breaks, and festive periods like Hari Raya.

Additionally, taking advantage of promotional events and sales can help reduce costs. Keep an eye out for discounted fares during major travel fairs, such as the MATTA Fair, or airline-specific promotions.

Finding affordable flights to Lawas requires smart planning and the use of modern tools. Follow this simple step-by-step guide:

To secure the best fares to Lawas, it's advisable to plan your trip during off-peak seasons and book your tickets well in advance. And most importantly, book your flight via Traveloka, where you can also find the best deals for hotels and tourist attractions all at once which will help you earn extra savings!