Flight Ticket and Schedule From Bangkok (BKK) to Penang (PEN)

Planning a trip from Thailand's vibrant capital to Malaysia's cultural pearl? Flying from Bangkok to Penang offers a convenient way to experience two of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the Bangkok to Penang flight route, including direct and layover options, airport information, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.

Direct Flights

Direct flights between Bangkok and Penang provide the quickest and most convenient option for travelers. Currently, two airlines operate non-stop services on this route:

• Airline: Firefly
• Average flight duration: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Aircraft used: Boeing 737

• Airline: THAI
• Average flight duration: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Aircraft used: Airbus A320

These direct flights cover a distance of approximately 583 miles (938 km), making it a relatively short international journey. Thai Airways International and Firefly are the primary carriers offering this convenient non-stop service between the two cities.

Layover Flights

If direct flights don't align with your schedule or budget, several airlines offer connecting flights with layovers in major Southeast Asian hubs:

• Route: Bangkok (Thailand) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)
• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
• Total Flight Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 737
• Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 3 hours 35 minutes

• Route: Bangkok (Thailand) → Singapore (Singapore) → Penang (Malaysia)
• Airlines: Scoot
• Total Flight Duration: 17 hours 35 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A321neo
• Layovers: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 13 hours 40 minutes (overnight)

• Route: Bangkok (Thailand) → Singapore (Singapore) → Penang (Malaysia)
• Airlines: Jetstar
• Total Flight Duration: 6 hours 25 minutes
• Aircraft: Airbus A320
• Layovers: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 2 hours 35 minutes

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

About Suvarnabhumi International Airport - Bangkok

Location

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers east of downtown Bangkok in the Samut Prakan province. As Thailand's main international gateway, it serves millions of passengers annually and connects Bangkok to destinations worldwide. The airport's strategic location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Airport Terminal

Suvarnabhumi operates with a single large terminal building divided into different concourses. International flights, including those to Penang, typically depart from Concourses D, E, F, or G. The terminal features a modern design with multiple levels dedicated to arrivals, departures, and transit facilities. For flights operated by carriers like Firefly, passengers usually depart from Terminal 1.

Transport to Airport

Travelers have multiple transportation options to reach Suvarnabhumi International Airport:

• Airport Rail Link: The most efficient way to avoid Bangkok's notorious traffic. This dedicated train connects the city center to the airport in about 30 minutes.
• Taxis: Metered taxis are widely available throughout Bangkok. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.
• Airport Shuttle Buses: Several shuttle services operate between major hotels and the airport.
• Private Transportation: Ride-hailing services and private car services offer convenient door-to-door transfers.

Facilities

Suvarnabhumi International Airport offers comprehensive facilities to ensure passenger comfort:

• Dining Options: Numerous restaurants, cafés, and food courts serving both local Thai and international cuisine
• Shopping: Extensive duty-free areas and retail shops selling everything from luxury goods to local souvenirs
• Lounges: Multiple airline and pay-per-use lounges for relaxation before flights
• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet access throughout the terminal
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for religious observance
• Medical Services: First aid facilities and a medical center
• Currency Exchange: Multiple currency exchange counters and ATMs
• Left Luggage: Secure baggage storage facilities for short or long-term use
• Transit Hotel: Accommodation options for layover passengers

About Penang Intl - Penang

Location

Penang International Airport is located at Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of Georgetown, the capital city of Penang. As the main gateway to Penang Island, the airport serves as a vital link between this Malaysian state and international destinations. Its proximity to major tourist areas makes it convenient for visitors to begin their Penang adventure shortly after landing.

Airport Terminal

Penang International Airport features a modern terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. The compact layout makes navigation relatively simple for arriving passengers. The terminal is divided into arrival and departure areas, with clear signage guiding travelers through immigration, baggage claim, and customs processes. International arrivals, including flights from Bangkok, are processed efficiently with dedicated immigration counters.

Transport From Airport

Getting from Penang International Airport to your destination is straightforward with several transportation options:

• Taxis: The most convenient option, with a taxi stand located just outside the arrival hall. Fixed fare tickets can be purchased at counters before boarding.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Popular ride-hailing apps operate at the airport, providing competitive rates for travel to Georgetown and other destinations.
• Public Buses: Rapid Penang operates bus services connecting the airport to Georgetown and other parts of the island. Routes 401, 401E, and 102 serve the airport.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies have counters at the terminal for those who prefer self-driving.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer shuttle services for their guests, which can be arranged in advance.

Facilities

Despite its relatively compact size, Penang International Airport offers a range of amenities for travelers:

• Dining: Several cafés, restaurants, and food stalls offering local Malaysian specialties and international options
• Shopping: Duty-free shops and retail outlets selling souvenirs, books, electronics, and local products
• Banking Services: Currency exchange counters and ATMs throughout the terminal
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access for passengers
• Information Counters: Tourism information desks providing assistance to visitors
• Medical Services: First aid facilities for emergency situations
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for Muslim travelers
• Baggage Services: Left luggage facilities and baggage wrapping services
• Car Rental Desks: Multiple agencies offering vehicle rentals for exploring Penang

FAQ Bangkok to Penang Flight

• Question: How long is the flight from Bangkok to Penang?
  Answer: Direct flights from Bangkok to Penang typically take around 1 hour and 50 minutes. Connecting flights with layovers will have longer total journey times depending on the duration of the stopover.
• Question: Which airlines offer direct flights between Bangkok and Penang?
  Answer: Firefly and Thai Airways International currently operate direct flights between Bangkok and Penang. Other airlines like Thai AirAsia have previously offered this route as well.
• Question: What is the distance between Bangkok and Penang?
  Answer: The flight distance between Bangkok and Penang is approximately 583 miles (938 kilometers).
• Question: How much do tickets typically cost for Bangkok to Penang flights?
  Answer: Ticket prices vary depending on the season, how far in advance you book, and the airline. Direct flights typically start from around $80 (or approximately £50) for a one-way journey, while round-trip tickets can be found from about $150 (£90) during regular periods. Special promotions may offer even lower fares.
• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Bangkok to Penang?
  Answer: Baggage allowance varies by airline and ticket class. Typically, economy class passengers on full-service airlines like Thai Airways are allowed one checked bag of 20-30 kg and one carry-on item. Budget airlines like AirAsia may charge additional fees for checked baggage. Always verify the specific allowance with your airline during booking.
• Question: What documents do I need for traveling from Thailand to Malaysia?
  Answer: Most nationalities require a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. Many countries receive visa-free entry to Malaysia for tourism purposes (typically 30-90 days), but requirements vary by nationality. Thai citizens can stay in Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days.
• Question: Which airports serve the Bangkok to Penang route?
  Answer: In Bangkok, flights to Penang depart from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) or occasionally from Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) depending on the airline. In Penang, all flights arrive at Penang International Airport (PEN).
• Question: What is the best time to book flights from Bangkok to Penang?
  Answer: For the best fares, it's generally recommended to book 1-3 months in advance. Avoid peak travel periods like Chinese New Year, school holidays, and major Malaysian or Thai holidays when prices tend to surge. Midweek flights (Tuesday to Thursday) often offer better deals than weekend departures.

Other Ways to Travel From Bangkok to Penang

While flying is the most efficient way to travel between Bangkok and Penang, adventurous travelers may consider alternative options:

• Train and Ferry Combination

  • Route: Bangkok → Hat Yai → Butterworth → Penang
  • Duration: Approximately 24-30 hours total
  • Process: Take an overnight train from Bangkok to Hat Yai (16 hours), then a minivan or train to Butterworth (5-6 hours), followed by a ferry to Penang Island (20 minutes)

• Bus and Ferry Combination

  • Route: Bangkok → Hat Yai → Butterworth → Penang
  • Duration: Approximately 20-24 hours total
  • Process: Take a long-distance bus from Bangkok to Hat Yai (14 hours), connect to another bus to Butterworth (5 hours), then take the ferry to Penang Island

• Road Trip with Border Crossing

  • Route: Bangkok → Southern Thailand → Malaysian Border (Bukit Kayu Hitam) → Penang
  • Duration: Approximately 15-18 hours driving time, plus rest stops and border procedures
  • Process: Drive south through Thailand, cross the border into Malaysia, then continue to Penang Island via the Penang Bridge

• Organized Tour

  • Several tour companies offer multi-day journeys from Bangkok to Penang with stops at points of interest along the way
  • Duration: 3-7 days depending on the itinerary
  • Process: Travel in an organized group with transportation, accommodation, and some activities included

Explore Penang

Popular Destinations in Penang

• Georgetown Historic Center

  A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial buildings, traditional shophouses, and historical landmarks. Don't miss the famous street art, heritage museums, and clan jetties that showcase Penang's rich multicultural history.

• Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)

  Offering panoramic views of the island, this hill station is accessible via a funicular railway. Visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures, colonial bungalows, and nature trails while taking in breathtaking vistas of Georgetown and the Straits of Malacca.

• Kek Lok Si Temple

  One of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, featuring beautiful architecture, gardens, and a towering seven-story pagoda. The temple complex is especially vibrant during Chinese New Year when it's adorned with thousands of lanterns.

• Batu Ferringhi Beach

  A popular stretch of coastline known for its white sand beaches, water sports activities, and vibrant night market. Perfect for relaxation, water activities, and enjoying spectacular sunsets.

• Tropical Spice Garden

  An ecological tourist attraction showcasing over 500 varieties of exotic flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about spices, herbs, and tropical plants through guided tours and cooking classes highlighting Penang's culinary heritage.

Popular Cuisine in Penang

• Penang Char Kway Teow

  A signature dish of flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives in a blend of sauces. Penang's version is typically lighter in color than those found elsewhere in Malaysia but packed with flavor.

• Assam Laksa

  Penang's iconic sour fish soup featuring thick rice noodles in a tangy tamarind broth, topped with mackerel flakes, pineapple, cucumber, onion, lettuce, and fragrant herbs. This dish perfectly exemplifies Penang's unique Nyonya culinary tradition.

• Nasi Kandar

  A meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. This Indian-influenced dish allows diners to select from an array of meat, seafood, and vegetable options, all drenched in flavorful curry sauces.

• Cendol

  A beloved dessert featuring shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green rice flour jelly. Penang's version often includes red beans, creamed corn, and a durian topping for the adventurous.

• Hokkien Mee (Prawn Noodle Soup)

  A rich prawn broth with egg noodles and rice vermicelli, topped with sliced pork, prawns, bean sprouts, and crispy fried shallots. The broth gains its distinctive flavor and color from prawn heads and shells simmered for hours.

For more information about flights from Bangkok, check out Suvarnabhumi International Airport and for details about arriving in Penang, visit Penang Intl on Traveloka's website. Book your flights early to secure the best deals and make the most of your journey between these two fascinating Southeast Asian destinations.