Traveling from Alor Setar to Pontianak connects travelers between Northern Malaysia and West Kalimantan, Indonesia—two vibrant destinations, each with unique attractions and rich culture. Whether you’re planning your journey for business, leisure, or to visit friends and family, it’s essential to understand every step, from departing at Sultan Abdul Halim Airport to arriving at Supadio Airport. Flight schedules, available services, and airport facilities may change based on airline policies and operational needs. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, travelers are advised to check schedules and requirements regularly as they are subject to change.
About Sultan Abdul Halim - Alor Setar
Location
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport is located in Kepala Batas, roughly 15 kilometers (about 9.3 miles) from the heart of Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. This international gateway serves not only Alor Setar but also the greater Kedah region and nearby Perlis, offering vital connectivity for both locals and visitors.
Airport Terminal
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport features a single, modern terminal designed for efficiency and comfort. Upgrades have brought improved seating, brighter lighting, and streamlined check-in and security processes. All departures and arrivals are handled here, making navigation straightforward for both frequent and infrequent travelers. The terminal is compact enough to allow quick movement from check-in to the gates, with clear signage throughout.
Transport to Airport
Traveling to Sultan Abdul Halim Airport is convenient, thanks to its proximity to Alor Setar and major highways. Common transport options include:
- Taxi: Readily available throughout Alor Setar and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street.
- Ride-hailing services: Popular apps offer door-to-door convenience.
- Personal vehicles: Ample parking spaces are available at the airport, both short-term and long-term.
- Public transport: Buses and airport shuttles periodically connect the city center to the airport, providing a budget-friendly option.
Facilities
Despite its modest size, Sultan Abdul Halim Airport provides a range of essential facilities to ensure a pleasant experience:
- Comfortable waiting lounges and rest zones, some with sleeping facilities (access fees may apply).
- Multiple check-in counters for different airlines.
- Baggage assistance, lost & found, and an information desk.
- A selection of dining outlets and cafés, offering local and international cuisine.
- Retail shops, including convenience stores and souvenir outlets.
- Free WiFi and charging stations to keep travelers connected.
- ATMs and currency exchange services for financial transactions.
- Clean and accessible restrooms throughout the terminal.
For more information about Sultan Abdul Halim Airport and its amenities, visit Sultan Abdul Halim on Traveloka.
About Supadio - Pontianak
Location
Supadio Airport is the main air hub serving Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Situated in Kubu Raya Regency, it lies approximately 17 kilometers (11 miles) from downtown Pontianak, serving as the key entry point to the city and the broader West Kalimantan region.
Airport Terminal
Supadio Airport features a modern terminal that accommodates both domestic and occasional international flights. The terminal is designed for efficiency and comfort, with designated check-in areas, security screening, and a large arrival hall. Recent renovations and expansions have improved passenger flows and enhanced facilities, accommodating millions of travelers annually.
Transport From Airport
Getting from Supadio Airport to Pontianak city center or other destinations is straightforward:
- Taxi: The most common way to reach the city; taxi counters can be found inside the terminal.
- Ride-hailing services: Widely used in Pontianak, offering alternatives to regular taxis.
- Public bus: Some buses and shuttle vans connect the airport to various parts of Pontianak and nearby towns.
- Car rental: Available from several recognized providers at the airport—ideal for those wishing to explore West Kalimantan at their own pace.
Facilities
Supadio Airport offers an array of passenger amenities, including:
- Spacious waiting lounges with comfortable seating.
- A wide variety of food and beverage outlets, offering local specialties and familiar international options.
- Shopping options featuring travel essentials, souvenirs, and duty-free shops.
- Prayer rooms and baby care facilities to meet various passenger needs.
- Free WiFi throughout the terminal.
- ATMs and currency exchange offices.
- Information desks and lost & found services to assist travelers.
- Ample parking and efficient baggage claim areas.
For detailed airport information, you can check Supadio on Traveloka.
FAQ Alor Setar to Pontianak Flight
- What is the typical flight duration from Alor Setar to Pontianak? Total travel time can vary depending on the airline, routes, and layovers, but most itineraries, especially those with layovers in Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta, take between 5 and 10 hours door-to-door.
- Are there direct flights from Alor Setar to Pontianak? Direct flights are uncommon. Most journeys require one or two layovers, typically in major hubs like Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Jakarta (CGK).
- What is the baggage allowance for flights on this route? Baggage policies depend on your chosen airline and fare class. Standard economy tickets typically include 15-20 kg for checked baggage and up to 7 kg for carry-on. Always check with your airline for current policies.
- Do I need a visa to fly from Malaysia to Indonesia? Malaysian citizens do not require a visa for short tourist stays in Indonesia. Travelers from other countries should check the latest visa requirements before departure.
- What airlines operate between Alor Setar and Pontianak? Major regional carriers such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Batik Air often operate connecting flights, typically routing through Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta.
- Are meals provided on flights from Alor Setar to Pontianak? Meal service depends on the airline and ticket class. Full-service airlines may offer complimentary meals or snacks, while low-cost carriers provide meals for purchase.
- How early should I arrive at Sultan Abdul Halim Airport for my flight? It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure for domestic flights, and 3 hours for international flights or flights with layovers.
- What documents do I need to prepare before flying? A valid passport with at least six months of validity, any required visas, your flight ticket, and additional documents such as proof of onward travel or hotel reservations if requested.
Other Ways to Travel From Alor Setar to Pontianak
Although flying is the fastest and most convenient option, travelers seeking alternatives can consider the following:
- Land and Sea Combination: Travel by bus or train from Alor Setar to Kuala Lumpur, then proceed to Pontianak via an international flight from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Alternatively, take a bus or drive south to Penang or Johor Bahru, then fly to Pontianak with a layover in Jakarta. For a more adventurous route, travel by train and bus from Alor Setar to Kuching (Sarawak), followed by cross-border land transport from Kuching to Pontianak via the Entikong border checkpoint. This total journey can take up to several days, depending on connections and border formalities.
- Overland with Ferries: Head south from Alor Setar to Johor Bahru or Penang, then take a domestic ferry or bus to an Indonesian port. From there, continue to West Kalimantan by sea (ferry) and land. This journey can take several days, depending on schedules and border crossing times.
Travel durations for these alternatives are considerably longer than flights, often taking from 24 hours to several days due to multiple transfers and border crossings.
Explore Pontianak
Popular Destinations in Pontianak
- Equator Monument Stand at the very line dividing the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the Equator Monument, the city’s most famous landmark.
- Kapuas River Waterfront The lively riverbanks offer stunning sunset views, floating restaurants, and boat tours along one of the world’s longest rivers.
- Kadriyah Palace Explore the historic palace of the Pontianak Sultanate, with its unique Malay architecture and royal artifacts.
- Saint Joseph Cathedral Admire the distinctive architecture of this impressive cathedral, a center of spiritual life in the city.
- Taman Alun Kapuas A riverside park perfect for relaxing, people-watching, and enjoying cool evening breezes with the locals.
Popular Cuisine in Pontianak
- Pengkang Grilled sticky rice stuffed with shrimp, wrapped in banana leaves—ideal for adventurous foodies.
- Chai Kue Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meats, a popular street snack in Pontianak.
- Sotong Pangkong Chargrilled dried squid, served with spicy peanut sauce—a local specialty during Ramadhan.
- Kwe Kia Theng A savory noodle soup featuring duck or pork, celebrated for its herbal broth.
- Es Krim Petrus Legendary homemade ice cream from a decades-old shop, perfect for cooling off in Pontianak’s tropical heat.
For a seamless booking experience, detailed itineraries, and up-to-date flight schedules, always use Traveloka for your Alor Setar to Pontianak journey. Explore and enjoy everything these incredible cities have to offer, knowing you have the latest information at your fingertips.
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.