Flight From Kota Bharu (KBR) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Fly seamlessly from Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu with Traveloka, your trusted travel companion for booking flights across Malaysia. Whether you’re planning a business trip, family vacation, or solo adventure, understanding flight options, airport facilities, and travel recommendations is essential for a smooth journey. Read on to discover detailed information about flight routes, layovers, airport amenities, FAQs, travel alternatives, and the vibrant attractions and cuisine awaiting you in Kota Kinabalu.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Layover Flights

While there are no direct flights currently, traveling from Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu is convenient with several layover options, primarily through Kuala Lumpur. Here are some of the most popular layover routes:

• Route: Kota Bharu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia)
  Airlines: Batik Air
  Total Flight Duration: 5h 25m
  Aircraft: Boeing 737
  Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), 1h 25m

• Route: Kota Bharu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia)
  Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
  Total Flight Duration: 5h 35m
  Aircraft: Boeing 737
  Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), 1h 45m

• Route: Kota Bharu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia)
  Airlines: AirAsia
  Total Flight Duration: 6h 5m
  Aircraft: Airbus A320
  Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), 2h 25m

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

About Sultan Ismail Petra - Kota Bharu

Location

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) is located in Pengkalan Chepa, approximately 10 kilometers from downtown Kota Bharu, Kelantan. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for both local and international travelers. For bookings and more airport-related information, visit Sultan Ismail Petra.

Airport Terminal

The terminal at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport is modern and well-equipped, offering a streamlined experience for departing and arriving passengers. It consists of a single, efficient terminal handling both domestic and limited international flights.

Transport to Airport

Passengers can reach Sultan Ismail Petra Airport via several transportation options:

• Taxi: Readily available throughout Kota Bharu. The ride typically takes around 20–30 minutes.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Popular local apps and services are available for booking rides directly to the airport.
• Bus: Some local buses serve the airport route, though private transport is usually more convenient for most travelers.

Facilities

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport provides a comprehensive range of facilities, including:

• Check-in counters and automated kiosks
• Waiting lounges
• Food and beverage outlets
• Retail shops for last-minute shopping
• Prayer rooms (surau) for Muslim travelers
• Clean and accessible restrooms
• Parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays

About Kota Kinabalu International Airport - Kota Kinabalu

Location

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is located about 8 kilometers southwest of Kota Kinabalu city center, making it highly convenient for travelers headed into Sabah's capital or the surrounding region. More details and booking options can be found at Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Airport Terminal

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is one of Malaysia's busiest airports, boasting two main terminals:

• Terminal 1: Handles most domestic and international flights, equipped with modern amenities and spacious waiting areas.
• Terminal 2: Historically used for charter and some low-cost carrier flights, now primarily reserved for cargo and select flights.

Transport From Airport

Travelers have multiple options for reaching Kota Kinabalu city and nearby destinations from the airport:

• Taxi: Fixed-rate coupon taxis are available at the arrivals area. The journey to the city typically takes 15–20 minutes.
• E-hailing Services: Apps like Grab offer pick-up and drop-off directly at the terminal.
• Airport Shuttle: A regular shuttle bus connects the airport to central Kota Kinabalu and major hotels.
• Car Rental: Several rental agencies operate within the airport for self-drive exploration.

Facilities

Kota Kinabalu International Airport offers a wealth of passenger services:

• Duty-free and retail outlets
• Food courts, restaurants, and cafes serving local and international cuisine
• Comfortable lounges, including premium and VIP waiting areas
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Baggage handling and lost & found services
• Information counters and flight information displays
• Baby care rooms, prayer rooms, and medical facilities

FAQ Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu Flight

• What is the average total journey time for Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu flights? The typical journey, including layovers, ranges from 5 hours 25 minutes to 6 hours 5 minutes depending on the airline and layover duration.
• Which airlines operate layover flights on this route? Batik Air, Malaysia Airlines, and AirAsia are the primary carriers offering layover options via Kuala Lumpur.
• Where is the layover for flights between Kota Bharu and Kota Kinabalu? Most routes include a layover at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL).
• What types of aircraft serve this route? Aircraft types commonly used include the Boeing 737 (Batik Air and Malaysia Airlines) and the Airbus A320 (AirAsia).
• How far in advance should I book my flight for the best fare? For the best prices, it is advisable to book your flights at least 3–4 weeks in advance. Prices may rise closer to the departure date.
• What is the baggage allowance for these flights? Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare type. Please check the airline’s policy directly when booking.
• Are meals provided on layover flights? Full-service airlines like Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air may include in-flight meals, while budget carriers like AirAsia usually provide food and beverages for an additional purchase.
• Are flight schedules subject to change? Yes, all flight times and schedules are subject to airline operational changes. Please confirm with your airline prior to travel.

Other Ways to Travel From Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu

Air travel is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Kota Bharu and Kota Kinabalu due to the geographic separation by land and sea. However, for those seeking alternative routes:

• By Land & Sea: Travelers could take a combination of bus, train, and ferry services, but this would require crossing into neighboring countries (such as Brunei or Indonesia) and involve multiple transfers. Such overland journeys can take several days and involve considerable planning, making them less practical than flying.
• By Bus & Train (Mainland only): You may travel by bus or train to Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru, then proceed to ports for possible sea passage to Sabah. This is time-consuming and not commonly preferred.
• Self-Drive: Driving requires crossing international borders and using ferry services from Peninsula Malaysia to Sabah, which can be complex and involve lengthy travel times (upwards of 2–3 days at minimum).
• Ferry Options: Limited; there are no direct ferries between Kota Bharu and Kota Kinabalu. Most sea travel options operate between West Malaysia and East Malaysia via larger cities like Johor Bahru or Port Klang to ports in Sabah or Sarawak.

Explore Kota Kinabalu

Popular Destinations in Kota Kinabalu

• Mount Kinabalu Malaysia’s tallest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park An island cluster ideal for snorkeling, diving, and island-hopping adventures.
• Kota Kinabalu City Mosque The iconic "floating mosque" offers stunning architecture and photography opportunities.
• Gaya Street Sunday Market A bustling street market in the city center, famous for souvenirs, local crafts, and delicious snacks.
• Sabah State Museum Dive deep into Sabah’s history, indigenous cultures, and natural heritage at this must-visit museum.

Popular Cuisine in Kota Kinabalu

• Sabah Laksa A spicy noodle soup unique to the region, blending fresh seafood and Sabah spices.
• Tuaran Mee Stir-fried handmade noodles originating from the nearby town of Tuaran.
• Hinava A traditional Kadazan-Dusun raw fish salad flavored with lime and spices.
• Seafood Barbecue Kota Kinabalu’s night markets are renowned for their grilled fish, prawns, and shellfish.
• Ngiu Chap A hearty beef noodle soup, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

With Traveloka, your trip from Kota Bharu to Kota Kinabalu is just a booking away. Explore comprehensive flight options, airport information, and the vibrant destinations of Sabah—all in one place. Start your journey by booking your flight through Sultan Ismail Petra and Kota Kinabalu International Airport with Traveloka for the most reliable experience in Malaysian air travel.