Flight from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu

Complete Guide to Alor Setar to Kota Bharu Flights

Planning a journey from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu? This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need about flight options, airports, and travel alternatives between these two Malaysian destinations. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, this guide will help you plan your trip efficiently while saving time and money.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

Route: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Malaysia) → Kota Bharu Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Malaysia) Airlines: Malaysia Airlines Total Flight Duration: 5h 50m Aircraft: Boeing 737 Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 3h 35m

Route: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Malaysia) → Kota Bharu Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Malaysia) Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Firefly Total Flight Duration: 6h 50m Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 72 Layovers: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 4h 30m

Route: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Malaysia) → Kota Bharu Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (Malaysia) Airlines: Batik Air Total Flight Duration: 19h 55m Aircraft: Boeing 737 Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 17h 40m (overnight)

Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.

About Sultan Abdul Halim - Alor Setar

Location

Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) is located approximately 10 kilometers from downtown Alor Setar in the state of Kedah, Malaysia. The airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia, connecting Alor Setar to various domestic destinations. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for travelers from the city center and surrounding areas.

Airport Terminal

Sultan Abdul Halim Airport features a modern terminal building that efficiently handles passenger traffic. Although compact compared to larger international airports, the terminal is well-designed and offers all essential facilities for a comfortable travel experience. The airport has separate areas for arrivals and departures, with clear signage to guide passengers through check-in, security screening, and boarding processes.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Sultan Abdul Halim Airport is convenient with several transportation options available:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Alor Setar and provide direct service to the airport. The journey from downtown takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Popular ride-sharing platforms operate in Alor Setar, offering a convenient and often cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
• Private Car: The airport has parking facilities for those who prefer to drive. The route to the airport is well-marked with directional signs from the city center.
• Public Bus: Public bus services connect various parts of Alor Setar to the airport, although they may not run as frequently as other transportation options.

It is advisable to allocate extra time for your journey to the airport, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

Facilities

Despite its relatively small size, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure passenger comfort:

• Food and Beverage: Several cafes and food outlets serve local and international cuisine, providing options for light meals and refreshments.
• Retail Shops: A selection of retail outlets offers travel essentials, souvenirs, and local products.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer rooms are available for Muslim travelers.
• ATMs: Banking facilities and ATMs are conveniently located within the terminal building.
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi service is available throughout the airport terminal.
• Seating Areas: Comfortable seating areas are provided in waiting zones.

The airport typically processes an average of 9 departure flights daily, with services beginning as early as 8:20 AM with Malaysia Airlines flight MH1205 to Kuala Lumpur, and continuing until the last departure at approximately 9:35 PM with AirAsia flight AK6173 to Johor Bahru.

About Sultan Ismail Petra - Kota Bharu

Location

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) is situated in Kota Bharu, the capital city of Kelantan state in Malaysia. The airport is historically significant as it is the second oldest airport in Peninsular Malaysia and currently stands as the busiest airport on the East Coast. Located at coordinates 6°10′02″N 102°17′32″E, the airport provides crucial connectivity for the eastern region of the peninsula.

Airport Terminal

The terminal at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport has recently undergone significant enhancements. Phase 1 of an extensive expansion project was completed and opened on May 1, 2024, transforming the facility into an international airport. The modernized terminal features improved passenger handling capabilities while maintaining efficient operations.

The airport has a rich historical background, having originally served as RAF Kota Bharu, a British military airfield. It gained historical significance as the landing site for the Japanese invasion of Malaya during World War II on December 8, 1941. Following the war, it was converted from a military airfield to civilian use, initially known as Pengkalan Chepa Airport.

Transport From Airport

Travelers arriving at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport have several transportation options to reach Kota Bharu city center and other destinations in Kelantan:

• Airport Taxis: Dedicated taxi services operate from the airport, with fixed rates to various destinations around Kota Bharu and beyond. These taxis are readily available outside the arrival area.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Popular ride-sharing applications function in Kota Bharu, offering convenient transportation with upfront pricing.
• Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport, allowing travelers to hire vehicles for independent exploration of Kelantan.
• Airport Shuttle: Limited shuttle services may be available to major hotels and destinations in Kota Bharu.

The journey from the airport to Kota Bharu city center typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Facilities

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport offers a comprehensive range of facilities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience:

• Food and Beverage Outlets: Various restaurants and cafes serving local Malaysian cuisine and international options.
• Retail Shops: Duty-free and retail outlets offering local products, souvenirs, travel necessities, and more.
• Prayer Rooms: Well-maintained prayer facilities for Muslim travelers.
• Information Counters: Staffed information desks to assist travelers with queries and information.
• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Banking services are available within the terminal.
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access throughout the terminal building.
• Baggage Services: Luggage storage and wrapping services for passenger convenience.
• Medical Services: First aid facilities for emergency situations.

Following its recent expansion, the airport now offers enhanced amenities designed to handle increased passenger traffic and provide an improved travel experience.

FAQ Alor Setar to Kota Bharu Flight

• Question: How long does it take to fly from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu? Answer: Since there are no direct flights between these cities, the total journey time varies depending on the connecting flight and layover duration. Typically, the fastest connection takes around 5 hours and 50 minutes, including a layover in Kuala Lumpur.
• Question: Which airlines operate flights between Alor Setar and Kota Bharu? Answer: Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and Batik Air operate connecting flights between Alor Setar and Kota Bharu via Kuala Lumpur. The specific airline combination depends on your chosen itinerary and schedule.
• Question: What is the cheapest way to fly from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu? Answer: Prices vary depending on the season, booking time, and specific flight combination. To find the best deals, it's recommended to book through Traveloka, which offers competitive rates and regular promotions on this route.
• Question: How far in advance should I book my flight from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu? Answer: For the best fares, it's advisable to book 2-3 months in advance. However, last-minute deals may occasionally be available during off-peak seasons. Traveloka offers price alerts that can help you track fare changes and book at the optimal time.
• Question: What documents do I need for domestic flights within Malaysia? Answer: Malaysian citizens need their MyKad (national identification card), while foreign nationals must present their passport. It's always recommended to have a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmation as well.
• Question: Is there a baggage allowance for flights between Alor Setar and Kota Bharu? Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. Typically, Malaysia Airlines offers 20-30kg for checked baggage on domestic routes, while Batik Air provides 15-20kg. Budget carriers may charge extra for checked luggage. Always verify the specific allowance when booking through Traveloka.
• Question: What happens if my connecting flight is delayed? Answer: If your flights are booked on a single ticket, the airline is responsible for rearranging your onward connection if the first flight is delayed. If booked separately, you may need to make alternative arrangements yourself. Traveloka's customer service can assist in coordinating with airlines in such situations.
• Question: Can I transit overnight in Kuala Lumpur between flights? Answer: Yes, some flight combinations feature overnight layovers in Kuala Lumpur, particularly the Batik Air option with a 17h 40m layover. In such cases, you may need to arrange accommodation in Kuala Lumpur. Many hotels near KLIA and KLIA2 offer shuttle services for transit passengers.

Other Ways to Travel From Alor Setar to Kota Bharu

If flying doesn't suit your travel plans, consider these alternative transportation methods:

By Car/Private Transport: The driving distance between Alor Setar and Kota Bharu is approximately 270-300 kilometers, depending on the route taken. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours under normal traffic conditions. The most common route follows the East-West Highway (Federal Route 4) through the mountainous central region of Peninsular Malaysia, offering spectacular scenery.

By Bus: Several bus companies operate services between Alor Setar and Kota Bharu. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, with buses departing from Alor Setar Bus Terminal and arriving at Kota Bharu Bus Terminal. Most buses are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seating, with some premium services offering additional amenities like USB charging ports and refreshments.

By Train: Malaysia's KTM railway network provides an indirect connection between these cities. From Alor Setar, you can take a train to Pasir Mas in Kelantan, and then complete the journey to Kota Bharu by local transportation. This option takes significantly longer (8-10 hours) but offers a unique and scenic travel experience through the Malaysian countryside.

Combined Transport: Some travelers opt for a combination of transportation methods, such as taking a bus to Kuala Lumpur and then flying to Kota Bharu. While this increases the total journey time, it can sometimes be more cost-effective and provides the opportunity to break up the trip with a stay in Malaysia's capital city.

Explore Kota Bharu

Popular Destinations in Kota Bharu

• Pasar Siti Khadijah (Central Market): This iconic market is famous for its striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The market is predominantly run by women vendors selling local produce, traditional crafts, and authentic Kelantanese cuisine. The octagonal building with its colorful dome is both a cultural landmark and photographer's delight.
• Islamic Museum of Kelantan (Muzium Islam): Housing an impressive collection of Islamic artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits on Islamic history and culture, this museum offers valuable insights into the region's religious heritage. The beautiful architecture of the building itself reflects traditional Kelantan design elements.
• Istana Jahar (Jahar Palace): Built in 1887, this former royal residence now serves as the Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs. The wooden palace showcases exquisite traditional Malay architecture and contains displays of royal regalia, wedding customs, and traditional Kelantanese crafts.
• Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Beach of Moonlight): Located about 10km from Kota Bharu city center, this beautiful beach offers golden sands and clear waters. Historically significant as the landing site of Japanese forces during World War II, it now serves as a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Wat Photivihan: This Thai Buddhist temple is home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Southeast Asia, measuring an impressive 40 meters in length. The temple complex features colorful architecture and intricate decorations, providing a fascinating glimpse into the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Cuisine in Kota Bharu

• Nasi Kerabu: A signature Kelantanese dish featuring blue-colored rice (tinted with butterfly pea flower) served with various herbs, vegetables, fish crackers, salted egg, and typically accompanied by ayam percik (grilled chicken with coconut milk sauce). The unique combination of flavors and colors makes this a must-try culinary experience.
• Ayam Percik: Marinated grilled chicken basted with a rich, spicy sauce made from coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, and other aromatic spices. The slow cooking process ensures the meat remains tender while absorbing the complex flavors of the marinade.
• Keropok Lekor: These traditional fish sausages originate from the east coast of Malaysia. Made from fish meat and sago flour, they're typically fried and served with a spicy chili sauce. The chewy texture and savory taste make them a popular snack among locals.
• Laksam: A unique take on laksa featuring thick, flat rice noodles served with a rich white gravy made from fish, coconut milk, and aromatic herbs. It's typically garnished with fresh vegetables and ulam (Malaysian herbs), creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Budu: A traditional fermented fish sauce unique to Kelantan. Often served as a condiment with fresh vegetables, rice, or used as a base for various dipping sauces. While its strong aroma might be challenging for first-timers, its complex umami flavor is integral to authentic Kelantanese cuisine.

Kota Bharu offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, historical sites, and culinary delights that reflect the unique heritage of Kelantan. Whether you're interested in exploring traditional markets, immersing yourself in local history, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or sampling authentic Malaysian cuisine, this vibrant city provides a memorable destination that showcases the distinctive character of Malaysia's east coast.

Book your flight from Alor Setar to Kota Bharu through Traveloka today and embark on an unforgettable journey to explore all that these fascinating Malaysian destinations have to offer!