Traveling from Alor Setar to Penang is a journey that connects two of northern Malaysia’s most intriguing regions. Whether you are visiting Penang for its UNESCO-listed heritage streets, legendary cuisine, or thriving business scene, understanding your travel options is essential for a seamless experience. This comprehensive guide covers the available flight routes, airport details, alternative travel methods, and insightful tips for travelers planning this trip with Traveloka.
Direct Flights
No direct flight available.
Layover Flights
Although there are no direct flights between Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (Alor Setar) and Penang International Airport, several comfortable and efficient one-stop routes are available. Here are the most accessible layover options:
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) → Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) → Penang International Airport (PEN)
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
- Total Flight Duration: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737
- Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1 hour 30 minutes
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) → Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) → Penang International Airport (PEN)
- Airlines: Batik Air
- Total Flight Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737
- Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1 hour 20 minutes
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR) → Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) → Penang International Airport (PEN)
- Airlines: Firefly
- Total Flight Duration: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Aircraft: ATR 72
- Layovers: Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), Subang, Malaysia layover for 1 hour 25 minutes
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 situated in Kepala Batas, about 15 kilometers north of Alor Setar city center, in the state of Kedah, Malaysia. Its strategic location serves the northern region, making it the main air gateway for Alor Setar and the surrounding towns.
Airport Terminal
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport features a single modern terminal that handles all domestic flights. Designed for efficiency, the terminal can handle the steady flow of passengers traveling within Peninsular Malaysia.
Transport to Airport
Travelers heading to Sultan Abdul Halim Airport can conveniently access the terminal via the following transportation modes:
- Taxi Services: Widely available in Alor Setar and neighboring towns. Metered taxis are the most direct way to the airport.
- Rideshare: Popular apps like Grab are active in the area for a cashless, convenient ride.
- Private Car: There are ample parking facilities for dropping off or picking up passengers.
- Bus: While there isn’t a direct public bus route to the terminal, intercity buses stop nearby, and taxis can cover the short final leg.
Facilities
The airport offers essential passenger facilities, including:
- Comfortable waiting areas
- Food and beverage outlets
- Retail shops for travel essentials and souvenirs
- Restrooms and baby care rooms
- ATMs and currency exchange counters
- Car rental desks
- Ample parking space
Find more details about flights via Sultan Abdul Halim on the Traveloka website: Sultan Abdul Halim
About Penang Intl - Penang
Location
Penang International Airport (PEN) is located in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital of Penang state. The airport is a key hub for northern Malaysia, connecting Penang to domestic and international destinations.
Airport Terminal
Penang International Airport features a modern single terminal designed to accommodate both international and domestic travelers. The terminal is equipped with efficient immigration and security services, streamlined check-in counters, and a range of traveler conveniences.
Transport From Airport
Penang International Airport offers various options for getting to George Town and other parts of the island:
- Airport Taxis: Official airport taxis have fixed-rate fares to various destinations on the island.
- Rideshare Services: Grab and other e-hailing services are readily available.
- Public Bus: Rapid Penang buses serve multiple routes between the airport and major destinations, including George Town, Batu Ferringhi, and Balik Pulau.
- Car Rental: Several reputable car rental providers are located within the arrivals hall.
- Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels offer shuttle services with prior arrangement.
Facilities
Travelers at Penang International Airport have access to:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Comfortable lounges
- Food courts and a variety of dining outlets
- Duty-free shopping and retail stores
- Money changers and ATMs
- Prayer rooms
- Medical clinic and pharmacy
- Information counters
For more flight information and airport facilities, visit the Traveloka page for Penang Intl.
FAQ Alor Setar to Penang Flight
- 1. Are there direct flights between Alor Setar and Penang?
No, there are currently no direct flights. All available services include at least one layover, typically in Kuala Lumpur. - 2. Which airlines operate flights from Alor Setar to Penang?
Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, and Firefly are the primary airlines that operate this route with convenient connections through key transit airports. - 3. How long does it take to fly from Alor Setar to Penang?
Total flight times, including layovers, range from approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes, depending on the route and airline. - 4. What is the shortest layover time on this route?
The shortest typical layover is around 1 hour and 20 minutes at Kuala Lumpur International Airport when flying with Batik Air. - 5. What types of aircraft are used for these flights?
You’ll typically fly on the Boeing 737 with Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air, and the ATR 72 with Firefly for the regional segments. - 6. How do I book connecting flights easily?
Traveloka offers a seamless flight booking experience that automatically combines available routes, layovers, and airlines for one convenient reservation. - 7. Are meals and baggage included in the airfare?
Inclusions depend on the airline and fare type. Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air often include meals and checked baggage; Firefly’s inclusions may vary. Check the fare rules during booking. - 8. Can I make changes or refunds after booking?
Flight change and refund policies vary according to the airline and ticket type. Be sure to review the terms and conditions before finalizing your booking on Traveloka.
Other Ways to Travel From Alor Setar to Penang
If you prefer not to fly, several alternative transportation options are available for the Alor Setar to Penang route:
- Train: KTM Komuter and ETS trains connect Alor Setar and Butterworth (Penang Mainland). The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. From Butterworth, the Penang Ferry or the bridge takes you onto Penang Island in under 30 minutes.
- Bus: Express buses operate frequently between Alor Setar and Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, Penang. The journey duration is approximately 2 hours.
- Car: The drive from Alor Setar to Penang (via the North-South Expressway and Penang Bridge) takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Taxi or Private Transfer: Comfortable personal transport is available and suited for families or groups.
Explore Penang
Popular Destinations in Penang
- George Town: UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and cultural landmarks.
- Penang Hill: Panoramic views, cool air, and historical funicular rail experience.
- Kek Lok Si Temple: Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple complex, famed for its striking pagoda and gardens.
- Batu Ferringhi: Popular for its sandy beaches, water sports, and lively night markets.
- Penang National Park: Nature trails, tropical rainforests, and unique wildlife, including the famous canopy walk and lighthouse at Cape Rachado.
Popular Cuisine in Penang
- Penang Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, sausage, eggs, and beansprouts.
- Penang Laksa (Asam Laksa): Tangy, spicy noodle soup with mackerel, tamarind, and fresh herbs.
- Nasi Kandar: Steamed rice served with a variety of rich, spicy curries and side dishes.
- Penang Rojak: Fruit and vegetable salad tossed in a thick, spicy prawn paste and crushed peanuts.
- Cendol: Shaved ice dessert with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup—perfect for hot days.
Start your journey by booking your flights via Sultan Abdul Halim or Penang Intl on Traveloka for a convenient and reliable travel planning experience.
Whether you are traveling for business, leisure, or a quick weekend getaway, the Alor Setar to Penang flight route—supported by Traveloka's user-friendly platform—ensures you are well-informed and ready to explore all that Penang has to offer. Safe travels!