Flight From Bintulu (BTU) to Tawau (TWU)

Complete Guide: Flights from Bintulu to Tawau

Planning a journey from Bintulu to Tawau? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flight routes, airports, and travel options between these two Malaysian destinations. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, we've compiled essential information to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

• Route: Bintulu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Tawau (Malaysia) Airlines: Batik Air Total Flight Duration: 15h 50m Aircraft: Boeing 737 Layovers: • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 10h 35m (overnight)
• Route: Bintulu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Tawau (Malaysia) Airlines: Malaysia Airlines Total Flight Duration: 13h 40m Aircraft: Boeing 737 Layovers: • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 8h 30m (overnight)

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

About Bintulu Airport - Bintulu

Location

Bintulu Airport is strategically located about 5 km (3.1 miles) southwest of Bintulu city center. By road, the airport is approximately 20-23 km from downtown, making it easily accessible for travelers. The airport is situated in the northeastern part of Sarawak, Malaysia, serving as an important gateway to this industrial town.

Airport Terminal

Bintulu Airport features a modern single terminal building spanning 3,120 square meters. Despite its relatively compact size, the terminal is well-designed to handle a variety of aircraft, including models as large as Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s. The airport operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM local time (2200-1400 UTC) daily, providing regular domestic connections to major Malaysian cities.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Bintulu Airport is convenient with several transportation options available:

• Taxis: Readily available from the city center to the airport, with a journey time of approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
• Car Rental: Several car rental services operate at the airport for travelers who prefer self-driving.
• Private Transfer: Pre-arranged private transfers can be booked through Traveloka for a hassle-free journey.
• Parking: The airport offers 100 parking bays for private vehicles, 20 taxi parking bays, 20 motorcycle parking bays, and 2 bus parking bays.

Facilities

Bintulu Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers:

• Premium Lounge: A comfortable space for relaxation before flights with workstations, private meeting spaces, buffet meals, and Wi-Fi.
• Dining Options: Various restaurants, cafes, and canteens serving local and international cuisine.
• Retail Outlets: Duty-free shops and stores for last-minute purchases.
• Financial Services: Multiple ATMs and banking services available.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the terminal.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated Muslim prayer rooms.
• Special Assistance: Services for passengers with reduced mobility, including free wheelchair service.
• Family Facilities: Baby care rooms and family-friendly restrooms.
• Information Counters: Staffed desks providing airport and flight information.
• Lost and Found: Service for misplaced items.
• Baggage Services: Secure luggage storage spaces and efficient baggage handling.

Additional amenities include a clinic, shower facilities, smoking lounges, TV lounges, and calm rooms for passengers seeking a quiet environment.

About Tawau Airport - Tawau

Location

Tawau Airport serves the bustling town of Tawau in Sabah, East Malaysia. The airport is situated approximately 30 kilometers from Tawau town center, providing convenient access to this important economic and tourism hub on the east coast of Sabah.

Airport Terminal

Tawau Airport features a modern terminal designed to handle domestic and some international flights. The terminal building is equipped with essential facilities to ensure passenger comfort. The airport primarily serves as a gateway to eastern Sabah, including access to renowned diving spots like Sipadan Island and the nearby Tawau Hills Park.

Transport From Airport

Travelers arriving at Tawau Airport have several transportation options to reach their final destinations:

• Taxis: Available directly outside the arrival area, offering fixed rates to different parts of Tawau.
• Airport Shuttles: Regular shuttle services connecting the airport to major hotels and the town center.
• Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate counters at the airport for those who prefer self-driving.
• Private Transfers: Pre-booked private transfers can be arranged through Traveloka for a seamless journey to your accommodation.

Facilities

Tawau Airport provides a range of facilities to enhance the passenger experience:

• Information Counters: Helpful staff providing assistance and information about flights and local attractions.
• Dining Options: Cafes and food outlets offering local Malaysian cuisine and refreshments.
• Retail Shops: Stores selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for Muslim travelers.
• ATMs: Banking facilities for currency and financial transactions.
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access throughout the terminal.
• Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating areas for passengers.
• Baggage Services: Efficient luggage handling and storage options.
• Wheelchair Services: Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility.

FAQ Bintulu to Tawau Flight

• Question: How long does it take to fly from Bintulu to Tawau? Answer: As there are no direct flights, the total journey time including layovers ranges from 13 to 16 hours, depending on the airline and connection times in Kuala Lumpur.
• Question: Which airlines operate flights between Bintulu and Tawau? Answer: Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air operate connecting flights between Bintulu and Tawau via Kuala Lumpur. Both airlines use Boeing 737 aircraft for these routes.
• Question: What is the best time to book flights from Bintulu to Tawau? Answer: It's advisable to book at least 4-6 weeks in advance to secure the best fares. Prices tend to increase closer to the departure date. Using Traveloka's price alert feature can help you track fare changes.
• Question: How much luggage allowance do I get on flights from Bintulu to Tawau? Answer: Luggage allowance depends on the airline and ticket class. Generally, Malaysia Airlines offers 30kg for economy class, while Batik Air typically provides 20kg. Additional baggage can be purchased during booking on Traveloka.
• Question: What should I do during the long layover in Kuala Lumpur? Answer: During your overnight layover in Kuala Lumpur, you can rest at airport lounges, explore the city if time permits, or book a transit hotel. KLIA offers various dining, shopping, and relaxation options to make your wait comfortable.
• Question: Is a visa required for domestic travel between Bintulu and Tawau? Answer: No visa is required for domestic travel within Malaysia. However, Malaysian citizens should carry their identification card (MyKad), while international travelers should have their passport and valid Malaysian visa or entry permit.
• Question: Can I book connecting flights from Bintulu to Tawau as a single ticket? Answer: Yes, you can book the entire journey as a single ticket through Traveloka, which simplifies the process and often provides better protection in case of delays or cancellations affecting connecting flights.
• Question: What are the check-in procedures for flights departing from Bintulu Airport? Answer: It's recommended to arrive at Bintulu Airport at least 2 hours before domestic departure. Most airlines offer online check-in 24-48 hours before departure, and you can also check in at the airport counters. Baggage drop closes 45 minutes before departure.

Other Ways to Travel From Bintulu to Tawau

While flying is the most practical option for traveling between Bintulu and Tawau due to the geographical separation (they are in different states on the island of Borneo), there are alternative routes for adventurous travelers:

• Combined Bus and Ferry Journey: Bus from Bintulu to Kota Kinabalu (approximately 10-12 hours) Ferry or speedboat from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau (approximately 16-18 hours) Total journey time: 26-30 hours plus waiting time between connections
• Road Trip with Multiple Stops: Drive from Bintulu to Brunei border (6-7 hours) Cross through Brunei (1-2 hours depending on border procedures) Continue driving through Sabah to Tawau (10-12 hours) Total driving time: 17-21 hours plus rest stops and border crossing time
• Coastal Shipping Services: Occasional cargo ships with passenger accommodations operate along the coast Journey time varies significantly (2-3 days) Limited schedules and availability

These alternative routes are significantly more time-consuming than flying but offer opportunities to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Borneo along the way.

Explore Tawau

Popular Destinations in Tawau

• Tawau Hills Park - A lush rainforest reserve featuring the tallest tropical trees in the world, hot springs, and scenic waterfalls. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to experience Borneo's biodiversity.
• Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve - A popular recreational park offering challenging hiking trails with panoramic views of Tawau town and the surrounding landscape from its summit.
• Teck Guan Cocoa Museum - Learn about chocolate production at Malaysia's largest cocoa plantation and processing facility, with opportunities for chocolate tasting and shopping.
• Tawau Central Market - Experience local culture at this bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, tropical fruits, handicrafts, and sample authentic local snacks.
• Pulau Sipadan - While technically accessed via Semporna, many visitors use Tawau as a gateway to this world-renowned diving paradise, considered one of the top diving destinations globally.

Popular Cuisine in Tawau

• Seafood - Freshly caught fish, prawns, crabs, and shellfish prepared in various styles, including steamed, grilled, or with spicy local sauces. "Hinava" (lime-cured fish) is a must-try local delicacy.
• Tawau Kon Lau Mee - A unique local noodle dish featuring springy egg noodles tossed in a special sauce, typically served with char siu (barbecued pork), vegetables, and sometimes seafood.
• Ngiu Chap - A hearty beef noodle soup that combines various beef parts (including meat, offal, and tendon) with rice noodles in a flavorful broth, garnished with fresh herbs.
• Beaufort Mee - Stir-fried noodles with a distinctive charred flavor, typically mixed with sliced pork, vegetables, and a savory sauce. A popular breakfast choice among locals.
• Pisang Goreng - Crispy fried banana fritters, often enjoyed as an afternoon snack. Tawau's version is especially delicious due to the region's premium banana varieties.

For a seamless travel experience, book your flights from Bintulu Airport to Tawau Airport through Traveloka, where you can compare prices, check schedules, and secure the best deals all in one place.