Flight From Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Lawas (LWY)

Planning a trip from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas? This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need about flight options, airports, and travel alternatives to ensure a smooth journey between these Malaysian destinations. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, understanding your flight options will help you plan effectively and make the most of your trip.

Direct Flights

Direct flights are available from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas operated by MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines. These non-stop flights typically operate twice weekly, with services commonly scheduled on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Flight duration is approximately 1 hour, covering the aerial distance between the two destinations. This is a convenient option for travelers looking to reach Lawas quickly from Kota Kinabalu.

Layover Flights

If direct flights don't match your schedule, several layover options are available:

• Flight from Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Miri (Malaysia)

  • Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Miri (Malaysia) → Lawas (Malaysia)
  • Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
  • Total Flight Duration: 15h 35m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737, De Hav.-Bombardier Twin Otter
  • Layovers:
    • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 7h 55m (overnight)
    • Miri Airport (MYY), Miri, Malaysia layover for 1h 50m

• Flight from Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) to Labuan (Malaysia) to Miri (Malaysia)

  • Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Labuan (Malaysia) → Miri (Malaysia) → Lawas (Malaysia)
  • Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
  • Total Flight Duration: 3h 25m
  • Aircraft: ATR 72, De Hav.-Bombardier Twin Otter
  • Layovers:
    • Labuan Airport (LBU), Labuan, Malaysia layover for 20m
    • Miri Airport (MYY), Miri, Malaysia layover for 1h

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

About Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Location

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is located approximately 7 kilometers from downtown Kota Kinabalu, making it easily accessible for travelers. As the main gateway to Sabah and the second busiest airport in Malaysia, it serves as a crucial transportation hub for both domestic and international flights.

Airport Terminal

The airport features two main terminals:

• Terminal 1: The larger and more modern terminal, handling most domestic and all international flights. The terminal is equipped with comprehensive facilities for passengers.
• Terminal 2: A smaller terminal primarily used for low-cost carriers and some domestic flights.

For flights to Lawas, passengers typically depart from Terminal 1.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Kota Kinabalu International Airport is convenient with several transportation options:

• Taxis: Available throughout the city with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes from the city center.
• Airport Bus: Regular shuttle services connect the airport to downtown with affordable fares.
• Ride-hailing Services: Popular ride-sharing apps operate in Kota Kinabalu, providing convenient door-to-door service.
• Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies offer services for those preferring to drive themselves.

Facilities

Kota Kinabalu International Airport offers comprehensive amenities to enhance your travel experience:

• Dining Options: A variety of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls serving local and international cuisine.
• Shopping: Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and retail outlets offering local products and international brands.
• Lounges: Premium lounges available for business class passengers and lounge members.
• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet available throughout the terminal buildings.
• Currency Exchange: Multiple currency exchange counters and ATMs.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers.
• Medical Services: First aid and medical assistance available for emergencies.
• Baggage Services: Luggage wrapping, storage, and trolleys available.

About Lawas Airport

Location

Lawas Airport is a small domestic airport located approximately 1.5 kilometers from Lawas town center in Sarawak, Malaysia. The airport primarily serves the local community and provides essential connectivity to this remote region of Malaysian Borneo.

Airport Terminal

Lawas Airport features a single, modest terminal building that handles all passenger operations. The terminal is small but functional, designed to accommodate the limited number of flights that operate to and from this destination. The simple layout makes navigating the airport straightforward for travelers.

Transport From Airport

Transportation options from Lawas Airport to the town center include:

• Taxis: The most common mode of transport, with a short journey time of approximately 5-10 minutes to reach the town center.
• Private Transport: Pre-arranged private vehicles can be organized through accommodations or local travel agencies.
• Walking: For travelers with light luggage, the town center is within walking distance (approximately 15-20 minutes).

Facilities

As a small regional airport, Lawas Airport offers basic but essential facilities:

• Waiting Area: Simple seating area for departing and arriving passengers.
• Restrooms: Basic toilet facilities available in the terminal.
• Information Desk: Staff available to assist with flight information and local queries.
• Basic Refreshments: Limited refreshment options may be available, though selection is minimal.
• Mobile Network Coverage: Cellular service is available at the airport for communication needs.

The compact size of the airport means check-in and boarding processes are typically quick and straightforward, though passengers are still advised to arrive with sufficient time before their scheduled departure.

FAQ Kota Kinabalu to Lawas Flight

• Question: How often do flights operate between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas?
  Answer: Direct flights between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas typically operate twice weekly, usually on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The schedule may vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check current timetables on Traveloka when planning your trip.
• Question: What is the cheapest month to fly from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas?
  Answer: May tends to be the most affordable month for flights between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas. Flight prices can start from approximately RM137 during this period. However, prices fluctuate based on demand, so booking in advance and using Traveloka's price comparison tools can help secure the best rates.
• Question: Which airline operates flights on the Kota Kinabalu to Lawas route?
  Answer: MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, is the primary carrier operating flights between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas. They provide both direct services and connecting flights via intermediate destinations like Miri or Labuan.
• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas?
  Answer: For MASwings flights, the standard checked baggage allowance is typically 20kg for economy class, with a 7kg allowance for cabin baggage. However, allowances may vary depending on the specific fare type and aircraft operating the route, so it's recommended to verify the exact allowance when booking through Traveloka.
• Question: How early should I arrive at Kota Kinabalu Airport for my flight to Lawas?
  Answer: For domestic flights departing from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, it's recommended to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding, especially during peak travel periods.
• Question: Are there any restrictions for flying to Lawas I should be aware of?
  Answer: Standard domestic flight regulations apply. Passengers should carry valid identification (such as MyKad or passport) and follow the airline's baggage policies. As Lawas is located in Sarawak, which has some autonomous immigration policies, non-Malaysian citizens should ensure they have appropriate documentation even for domestic travel.
• Question: What type of aircraft is used for flights between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas?
  Answer: Direct flights between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas typically utilize De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, which are small, short-takeoff-and-landing capable planes ideal for serving smaller airports like Lawas. These aircraft typically seat approximately 19 passengers.
• Question: Can I book a last-minute flight from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas?
  Answer: Last-minute bookings are possible subject to seat availability, though prices tend to be higher closer to departure dates. Given the limited frequency of flights to Lawas, it's strongly recommended to book in advance through Traveloka to secure your preferred travel dates and obtain better fares.

Other Ways to Travel From Kota Kinabalu to Lawas

While flying is the most convenient option for traveling between Kota Kinabalu and Lawas, alternative transportation methods exist for adventurous travelers or those seeking different experiences:

• Road and Ferry Combination
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu → Menumbok → Labuan → Lawas
  • Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours total
  • Details: This journey involves driving from Kota Kinabalu to Menumbok (2.5 hours), taking a ferry to Labuan (1.5 hours), and then another ferry to Lawas (2.5 hours), plus waiting times between connections.
• Overland via Brunei
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu → Beaufort → Limbang → Lawas
  • Duration: Approximately 12-14 hours including border crossings
  • Details: This route requires crossing through Brunei, necessitating proper immigration documentation. The journey includes multiple bus or car segments and potentially several border checkpoints.
• Private Boat Charter
  • Route: Direct sea route along the coastline
  • Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours depending on sea conditions
  • Details: Private boat charters can be arranged but are weather-dependent and relatively expensive compared to other options.
• Combined Bus and Boat
  • Route: Kota Kinabalu → Sipitang → Lawas
  • Duration: Approximately 8-9 hours
  • Details: Take a bus from Kota Kinabalu to Sipitang (4 hours), then a boat or land transport to Lawas (2-3 hours plus waiting time).

These alternative routes offer scenic views and cultural experiences but require significantly more time and potentially multiple transfers. They may appeal to travelers with flexible schedules looking to experience the diverse landscapes of Northern Borneo.

Explore Lawas

Popular Destinations in Lawas

• Lawas Town Center

  The heart of Lawas features a vibrant local market, shops, and eateries where visitors can experience authentic local life. The weekly tamu (open-air market) is particularly worth visiting for local produce, handicrafts, and cultural interactions.

• Puneng Kelalan

  Located in the highlands near Lawas, this scenic area is known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and the famous Kelalan rice. Visitors can explore traditional villages, rice terraces, and enjoy refreshing mountain air.

• Merarap Hot Springs

  These natural hot springs are situated in a picturesque jungle setting. The thermal waters are believed to have therapeutic properties, making it a relaxing destination after exploring the region.

• Long Semadoh Valley

  Known for its scenic beauty and agricultural activities, the valley is home to terraced rice fields and traditional Lun Bawang communities. The area offers opportunities for cultural immersion and photography.

• Ba Kelalan

  Though technically a separate settlement, this highland community near Lawas is accessible from the town and famous for its apple farms, cool climate, and traditional longhouses. The surrounding mountains provide excellent hiking opportunities.

Popular Cuisine in Lawas

• Kelalan Rice

  This locally grown highland rice is prized for its unique texture and flavor. Often served as a staple with local dishes, it's considered among the finest rice varieties in Malaysia.

• Lun Bawang Bamboo Chicken (Nuba Laya)

  A traditional dish where chicken is cooked inside bamboo tubes with local herbs and spices, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor and tender texture to the meat.

• Umai

  A raw fish salad marinated with lime juice, onions, chilis, and other seasonings. This refreshing dish is popular in coastal communities and showcases the fresh seafood available in the region.

• Manok Pansuh

  Chicken cooked in bamboo with local herbs and spices, creating a unique aromatic dish that represents traditional Borneo cooking techniques.

• Tebaloi

  A traditional Sarawak snack made from sago flour, sugar, and flavored with pandan. These crispy biscuit-like treats are often enjoyed with tea or coffee and make excellent souvenirs.

Lawas may be a small town, but it offers authentic culinary experiences that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of Northern Sarawak. Many of these dishes can be found in local eateries, markets, and during cultural festivals throughout the year.

Planning your journey from Kota Kinabalu to Lawas is simple with Traveloka. Whether you prefer direct flights for convenience or are exploring alternative travel options, this guide provides all the essential information you need for a smooth trip. Remember to book in advance for the best deals and check the latest flight schedules, as they may vary seasonally. Safe travels as you explore the unique cultural and natural attractions that Lawas has to offer!