Are you planning a journey from Johor Bahru to Miri? Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or visiting family, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two Malaysian destinations. With direct flights taking just 2 hours and various connecting options available, your journey to Miri can be convenient and enjoyable.
Read on to discover flight options, airport information, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey.
Direct Flights
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Johor Bahru to Miri is via direct flights operated by AirAsia. These non-stop services provide the most efficient route between the two cities without the hassle of changing planes.
Airline: AirAsia Average Flight Duration: 2 hours Aircraft Used: Airbus A320 Flight Frequency: Three weekly flights Departure Times: Earliest departure at 13:30, latest at 14:45 Route Distance: Approximately 739 miles Price Range: Starting from RM 151 for one-way trips and RM 259 for return flights
AirAsia offers reliable service on this route with an on-time performance rate of 81.25%. Flights depart from Senai International Airport (JHB) in Johor Bahru and arrive at Miri Airport (MYY). For the best deals, consider booking your flight during April, which typically offers the lowest fares of the year, while January tends to be the most popular month for this route.
Layover Flights
If direct flights don't suit your schedule or budget, several connecting flight options are available that provide flexibility with your travel plans:
- Route: Johor Bahru (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Miri (Malaysia) Airlines: Malaysia Airlines Total Flight Duration: 4h 45m Aircraft Used: Boeing 737 Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1h 20m
This option provides a relatively short total journey time with a brief layover in Malaysia's capital city.
- Route: Johor Bahru (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Miri (Malaysia) Airlines: Malaysia Airlines Total Flight Duration: 8h 40m Aircraft Used: Boeing 737 Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 5h 25m (overnight)
If you prefer to break up your journey with an extended stopover, this overnight option allows time to rest or even explore Kuala Lumpur if your layover permits.
- Route: Johor Bahru (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Miri (Malaysia) Airlines: AirAsia Total Flight Duration: 5h 50m Aircraft Used: Airbus A320, Airbus A320neo Layovers:
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia layover for 2h 40m
This route offers variety with a layover in Kota Kinabalu, providing a different connecting point in East Malaysia.
- Sibu Airport
- Kuching International Airport
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Senai International Airport - Johor Bahru
Location
Senai International Airport, officially known as Johor Bahru Sultan Ismail International Airport, is located approximately 32 kilometers northwest of Johor Bahru city center. The airport serves as the main gateway to southern Malaysia and is strategically positioned near the Malaysia-Singapore border.
Airport Terminal
The airport features a modern terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is designed with passenger comfort in mind, offering a clean, efficient environment for travelers. The layout is straightforward, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.
Transport to Airport
Multiple transportation options are available for reaching Senai International Airport:
- Taxi/Ride-hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab offer door-to-door convenience to the airport from anywhere in Johor Bahru.
- Airport Shuttle: Regular shuttle services operate between Johor Bahru city center and the airport.
- Public Bus: Several bus routes connect the airport with various parts of Johor Bahru.
- Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies operate at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.
- Private Car: The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking facilities for those traveling with their own vehicles.
Facilities
Senai International Airport provides various facilities to ensure a comfortable experience before your flight:
- Dining Options: Several cafes, restaurants, and food kiosks offering local and international cuisine
- Shopping: Duty-free shops and retail outlets selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products
- Lounges: Premium lounges available for eligible passengers
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- ATMs and Currency Exchange: Banking facilities available within the terminal
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers
- Medical Services: First aid station for emergency medical assistance
- Baggage Services: Luggage wrapping and storage services
- Special Assistance: Services available for passengers with reduced mobility
About Miri Airport - Miri
Location
Miri Airport is situated approximately 11 kilometers south of Miri city center in Sarawak, East Malaysia. As the fifth busiest airport in Malaysia, it serves as an important gateway to northern Sarawak and provides access to the region's natural attractions and business centers.
Airport Terminal
Miri Airport features a modern terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal building was upgraded in recent years to accommodate increasing passenger traffic and improve traveler experience. The single-terminal design makes it easy to navigate and locate essential services.
Transport From Airport
Upon arrival at Miri Airport, travelers can choose from several transportation options:
- Taxi: The most convenient door-to-door option, with taxis readily available outside the arrival hall.
- Airport Shuttle: Regular shuttle services connect the airport with major hotels and the city center.
- Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate counters at the airport for those who prefer self-driving.
- Private Pickup: Many hotels in Miri offer airport pickup services that can be arranged in advance.
- Public Transport: Limited public bus services connect the airport with the city center.
Facilities
Miri Airport provides a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant travel experience:
- Dining Options: Several cafes and restaurants serving local and international cuisine
- Retail Shops: Stores offering souvenirs, books, travel necessities, and local handicrafts
- Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet throughout the terminal
- ATMs: Banking facilities for cash withdrawals and simple transactions
- Information Counter: Staffed help desk for travel inquiries and assistance
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated facilities for Muslim travelers
- Baggage Services: Left luggage and baggage wrapping services
- Medical Services: First aid facilities for emergency assistance
- Special Assistance: Services for passengers with reduced mobility
FAQ Johor Bahru to Miri Flight
- Question: What is the flight duration from Johor Bahru to Miri? Answer: Direct flights from Johor Bahru to Miri take approximately 2 hours. Connecting flights with layovers can range from 4 hours 45 minutes to over 8 hours depending on the connection time.
- Question: How many direct flights operate between Johor Bahru and Miri weekly? Answer: Currently, there are three weekly direct flights between Johor Bahru and Miri, all operated by AirAsia. Flight schedules may vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check current timetables when planning your trip.
- Question: What is the cheapest month to fly from Johor Bahru to Miri? Answer: April typically offers the lowest fares for flights between Johor Bahru and Miri. Booking in advance during this period can help secure the best deals.
- Question: What baggage allowance is offered on AirAsia flights from Johor Bahru to Miri? Answer: AirAsia's standard baggage policy allows passengers to bring onboard 2 bags as cabin luggage with a combined weight not exceeding 7kg. Purchasing the Value Pack, Premium Flex, or Premium Flatbed options includes a complimentary 20kg checked baggage allowance.
- Question: Are there any meal services on the direct flight? Answer: Basic AirAsia tickets do not include complimentary meals, but you can purchase food and beverages onboard. Complimentary in-flight meals are included when you book Premium Flex or Premium Flatbed fare classes.
- Question: How far in advance should I arrive at Senai International Airport for my flight to Miri? Answer: It's recommended to arrive at least 1 hour before departure for domestic flights. During peak travel periods, especially school holidays, consider arriving up to 2 hours early to allow time for check-in and security procedures.
- Question: Can I earn loyalty points on the Johor Bahru to Miri route? Answer: Yes, AirAsia allows passengers to collect AirAsia points when flying this route. These points can be used for future flights, hotels, food, insurance, and other services within their rewards program.
- Question: What are the transit visa requirements for layover flights involving Kuala Lumpur? Answer: For Malaysian citizens traveling on domestic connections, no transit visa is required. International travelers should check specific requirements based on their nationality, though many nationalities don't need transit visas for connections within Malaysia if they remain in the transit area.
Other Ways to Travel From Johor Bahru to Miri
While flying is the most practical option for traveling between Johor Bahru and Miri due to the considerable distance and geographical separation (Miri is located in East Malaysia on the island of Borneo), there are alternative routes that combine different modes of transportation for those with more time and a sense of adventure:
Sea and Land Journey:
- Ferry from Johor Bahru to Batam, Indonesia (1 hour)
- Ferry from Batam to Singapore (1 hour)
- Flight from Singapore to Kuching (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Bus from Kuching to Miri (10-12 hours)
- Total Duration: Approximately 3-4 days including overnight stays
Mainland Route:
- Bus from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur (4-5 hours)
- Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Miri (2 hours 30 minutes)
- Total Duration: Approximately 8-10 hours including waiting time
Cross-Country Adventure:
- Train from Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur (6-7 hours)
- Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Road trip from Kuching to Miri along the Pan Borneo Highway (10-12 hours)
- Total Duration: 2-3 days including overnight stays
These alternative routes are considerably longer and more complex than direct flights, making air travel the most time-efficient and practical option for most travelers.
Explore Miri
Popular Destinations in Miri
- Niah Caves Located within Niah National Park, these impressive limestone caves are home to some of the oldest human remains in Southeast Asia. The caves feature remarkable cave paintings and are a significant archaeological site where 40,000-year-old human remains have been discovered. The park itself offers excellent hiking trails through pristine rainforest.
- Lambir Hills National Park Just 30 minutes from Miri, this national park boasts incredible biodiversity with over 1,050 tree species in a small area. Visitors can enjoy numerous hiking trails leading to spectacular waterfalls and natural swimming pools. The park is perfect for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
- Canada Hill and the Grand Old Lady This historic site features Malaysia's first oil well, nicknamed the "Grand Old Lady," which marked the beginning of Malaysia's petroleum industry. The hill also offers panoramic views of Miri city and houses the Petroleum Museum where visitors can learn about the region's oil history.
- Miri City Fan A beautifully landscaped urban park in the heart of Miri featuring themed gardens, an amphitheater, fountains, and recreational facilities. It's the perfect place for an evening stroll or morning exercise, popular with both locals and tourists.
- Tusan Beach Famous for its unique "Drinking Horse" rock formation and occasional blue tears phenomenon (bioluminescent plankton), Tusan Beach offers stunning coastal scenery. The dramatic cliffs and pristine shoreline make it a favorite sunset spot and photography location.
Popular Cuisine in Miri
- Sarawak Laksa A local variation of the popular Malaysian laksa, featuring a shrimp-based broth with coconut milk, vermicelli noodles, shredded chicken, bean sprouts, and topped with fresh lime and sambal. Miri's version often has its own distinct flavor profile compared to other regions in Sarawak.
- Kolo Mee A dry noodle dish tossed in a mixture of lard, soy sauce, and seasonings, typically served with char siu (barbecued pork), minced meat, and spring onions. Variations include red kolo mee (colored with char siu sauce) and black kolo mee (with dark soy sauce).
- Miri Kampua Similar to kolo mee but with a different noodle texture and seasoning style. The noodles are springier and the dish is often served with a side of clear soup, making it a filling and satisfying meal option.
- Nasi Lalapan A local rice dish influenced by Indonesian cuisine, featuring steamed rice served with fried fish, vegetables, and spicy sambal. The dish showcases the multicultural heritage of Miri's food scene.
- Mee Jawa Sarawak A unique Sarawakian adaptation of Javanese noodles, featuring yellow noodles in a sweet potato-based gravy with bean sprouts, fried tofu, boiled eggs, and prawn crackers. The dish reflects the cultural fusion common in Miri's diverse culinary landscape.
Make your journey between Senai International Airport and Miri Airport simple and stress-free by booking your flights through Traveloka. With competitive prices, regular promotions, and a user-friendly booking platform, Traveloka ensures that your travel experience starts smoothly from the moment you plan your trip. Whether you're seeking adventure in Miri's natural wonders or traveling for business, the direct flight connection between these cities provides an efficient route that makes the most of your valuable time.