Flight From Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Sandakan (SDK)

Planning a trip from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan? Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or visiting family, finding the perfect flight is essential for a smooth journey. The flight route between these two vibrant Malaysian destinations offers travelers a quick and convenient way to explore Sabah's diverse attractions. With a flight time of just 45 minutes, you can easily hop from the state capital to Sandakan's wildlife sanctuaries and historical sites without wasting precious vacation time. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flying from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, including airlines, schedules, airport information, and travel alternatives.

Direct Flights

• Airline: AirAsia
  • Average Flight Duration: 47 minutes
  • Aircraft Used: Airbus A320, Airbus A320neo

AirAsia offers multiple daily flights between Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) and Sandakan Airport (SDK). As Malaysia's leading low-cost carrier, AirAsia provides affordable options with various departure times throughout the day, including early morning departures at 06:25, mid-morning at 09:15, afternoon flights at 12:40, and early evening departures at 14:00. Fares start from as low as USD 12.87, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers. The airline operates modern Airbus aircraft on this route, ensuring a comfortable journey despite the short flight time.

• Airline: Firefly (Also sold by Malaysia Airlines)
  • Average Flight Duration: 45 minutes
  • Aircraft Used: Boeing 737

Firefly, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines, offers direct flights from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan with a daily departure at 10:00 AM, arriving in Sandakan at 10:45 AM. These flights are also marketed by Malaysia Airlines as codeshare services, giving passengers the option to book through either airline. Firefly operates Boeing 737 aircraft on this route, providing a slightly different flying experience compared to AirAsia. The flight duration is approximately 45 minutes. Ticket prices are competitive, with fares starting from around USD 33 for one-way trips.

Layover Flights

Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Lahad Datu (Malaysia) → Sandakan (Malaysia)

Airlines: Malaysia Airlines

Total Flight Duration: 1h 45m

Aircraft: ATR 72

Layovers:

• Lahad Datu Airport (LDU), Lahad Datu, Malaysia layover for 20m

For travelers who can't find suitable direct flight options or prefer to break up their journey, Malaysia Airlines offers connecting flights via Lahad Datu. This option increases the total travel time to approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes but may offer more flexibility with scheduling. The airline typically uses ATR 72 turboprop aircraft for these regional connections, which provide a different flying experience compared to jet aircraft.

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

About Kota Kinabalu International Airport - Kota Kinabalu

Location

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is conveniently located just 7 kilometers from downtown Kota Kinabalu, making it easily accessible for travelers. As the second-busiest airport in Malaysia, it serves as the main gateway to Sabah and Malaysian Borneo. The airport's proximity to the city center means travelers can reach their accommodations in just 15-20 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.

Airport Terminal

The airport consists of two main terminals: Terminal 1 handles both international and domestic flights, while Terminal 2 primarily serves low-cost carriers. For flights to Sandakan, passengers will typically depart from Terminal 1's domestic section. The terminal features modern amenities and is designed to handle a large volume of passengers efficiently. Check-in counters typically open two hours before scheduled departure times, and it's recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight to allow sufficient time for security procedures.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Kota Kinabalu International Airport is straightforward, with several transportation options available:

• Taxi: The most convenient option, with fares ranging from RM20-30 from the city center. Travel time is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Airport Bus: Budget-friendly airport shuttles run regularly between the city center and the airport, with fares around RM5 per person. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes.
• Ride-sharing Services: Apps like Grab offer convenient and often more affordable alternatives to traditional taxis, with similar travel times.
• Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Facilities

Kota Kinabalu International Airport offers excellent facilities to ensure a comfortable pre-flight experience:

• Free WiFi: Available throughout the terminal buildings for staying connected.
• Dining Options: Various restaurants, cafes, and food kiosks offering local and international cuisine.
• Shopping: Duty-free shops and retail outlets selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.
• Lounges: The Plaza Premium Lounge is available for both international and domestic travelers, offering meals, beverages, shower facilities, and workstations. The international lounge is located on Level 3 near Gate B3 (open from 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM daily), while the domestic lounge is on Level 2 near Gate A10 (open from 05:30 AM to 10:00 PM daily).
• Special Services: Baby care rooms, prayer rooms for Muslim travelers, smoking lounges, and assistance for elderly or disabled passengers.
• Banking Services: ATMs and currency exchange counters are available throughout the terminal.
• Baggage Services: Luggage wrapping, storage lockers, and lost and found department.

About Sandakan Airport - Sandakan

Location

Sandakan Airport (SDK) is located approximately 10 kilometers from Sandakan city center, making it conveniently accessible for travelers. The airport serves as an important gateway to eastern Sabah and provides easy access to the region's renowned wildlife sanctuaries, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

Airport Terminal

Sandakan Airport features a single terminal building that handles all domestic flights arriving from Kota Kinabalu and other Malaysian cities. Though smaller than Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the terminal is well-maintained and efficiently organized to handle passenger traffic. The compact size of the terminal means short walking distances and quick processes for arriving and departing passengers.

Transport From Airport

Several transportation options are available for travelers arriving at Sandakan Airport:

• Taxi: The most direct option, with fares to Sandakan city center costing approximately RM30. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Airport Shuttle: Some hotels offer shuttle services for their guests. It's advisable to check with your accommodation in advance.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport for travelers who prefer independent mobility during their stay.
• Ride-sharing Services: Apps like Grab are available in Sandakan and often provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.

Facilities

Despite its smaller size, Sandakan Airport offers essential facilities to meet travelers' needs:

• WiFi: Complimentary wireless internet access is available throughout the terminal.
• Dining Options: Several cafes and food kiosks serving light meals, snacks, and beverages.
• Retail Shops: Small retail outlets selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.
• ATMs: Banking facilities are available for cash withdrawals.
• Information Counter: Staffed service desk providing assistance and information to travelers.
• Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating areas for passengers awaiting their flights.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for Muslim travelers.

FAQ Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan Flight

• Question: How long is the flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan?
  • Answer: The direct flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan takes approximately 45-47 minutes, making it one of the shortest domestic routes in Malaysian Borneo.
• Question: What is the cheapest day to fly from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan?
  • Answer: Typically, mid-week flights (Tuesday to Thursday) offer the most competitive fares, with prices starting from as low as USD 12.87. Weekend flights tend to be more expensive due to higher demand. Booking through Traveloka allows you to compare prices across different days to find the most economical option.
• Question: How many airlines fly directly from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan?
  • Answer: Two airlines operate direct flights on this route: AirAsia and Firefly (with some flights marketed by Malaysia Airlines as codeshare services).
• Question: What is the earliest flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan?
  • Answer: The earliest flight typically departs Kota Kinabalu at 06:25 AM, operated by AirAsia, arriving in Sandakan at 07:10 AM.
• Question: How much luggage allowance do I get on flights between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan?
  • Answer: Luggage allowances vary by airline and fare type. AirAsia's basic fares include only hand luggage (7kg), with checked baggage available for purchase. Firefly and Malaysia Airlines typically include 20kg of checked baggage in their standard fares. It's advisable to check the specific allowance when booking your ticket through Traveloka.
• Question: Is it cheaper to book a round-trip ticket rather than two one-way tickets?
  • Answer: Round-trip tickets often offer better value, with prices starting from USD 38 compared to approximately USD 23 for one-way tickets. Booking through Traveloka allows you to compare both options to find the most economical choice for your travel dates.
• Question: How frequently do flights operate between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan?
  • Answer: Multiple flights operate daily, with AirAsia offering up to 4 daily flights and Firefly/Malaysia Airlines operating at least one daily flight. This provides travelers with flexible scheduling options throughout the day.
• Question: What happens if my flight gets delayed or canceled?
  • Answer: In case of significant delays or cancellations, airlines typically offer rebooking on the next available flight or, in some cases, refunds according to their policies. Booking through Traveloka provides an additional layer of customer support to help manage any schedule disruptions.

Other Ways to Travel From Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan

While flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, alternative transportation methods are available for those seeking different experiences:

By Bus
Long-distance buses connect Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, traveling along the coastal route. The journey covers approximately 330 kilometers and takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses depart from Kota Kinabalu's North Bus Terminal (Terminal Bas Utara) and arrive at Sandakan Bus Terminal. Tickets cost around RM40-50 one-way, making this a budget-friendly option for travelers who aren't pressed for time and enjoy scenic road trips.

By Car
Renting a vehicle and driving yourself offers maximum flexibility for exploring the region. The journey follows Route 1 eastward from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, covering approximately 330 kilometers. The drive takes around 5-6 hours without stops, but many travelers choose to break up the journey with visits to attractions along the way. This option is ideal for those who want to explore lesser-known areas of Sabah at their own pace.

By Private Transfer
Private car services with drivers can be arranged for direct transfers between the two cities. This option provides comfort and convenience without the responsibility of driving yourself. Prices vary but typically start from RM400-600 for a one-way journey.

Explore Sandakan

Popular Destinations in Sandakan

• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
  A world-famous conservation center where visitors can observe orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about rehabilitation efforts. Located about 25 kilometers from Sandakan city, this sanctuary provides a vital safe haven for orphaned and injured orangutans, preparing them for eventual release into the wild.
• Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  Adjacent to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, this facility is dedicated to the conservation of sun bears, the world's smallest bear species. Visitors can observe these endangered animals from elevated walkways while learning about conservation efforts.
• Sandakan Heritage Trail
  A historical walking route that takes visitors through key sites including the Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Memorial Park, and St. Michael's and All Angels Church. This trail offers insights into Sandakan's rich and sometimes tragic history, including its role during World War II.
• Turtle Islands Park
  A group of islands located about an hour's boat ride from Sandakan where green and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay eggs. Visitors can stay overnight to witness this remarkable natural phenomenon and visit the turtle hatchery.
• Kinabatangan River
  Though technically outside Sandakan city, many tours to this wildlife-rich river depart from Sandakan. The area is renowned for its biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills, and even wild orangutans in their natural habitat.

Popular Cuisine in Sandakan

• Sandakan UFO Tart
  A local pastry specialty with a distinctive flying saucer shape, these sweet tarts feature a thin, crispy crust filled with a mixture of eggs, butter, and sugar. They're a must-try Sandakan delicacy often purchased as souvenirs.
• Mee Tai Foo
  A unique Sandakan noodle dish featuring fish balls, fish cakes, bean sprouts, and various meats in a savory broth. The dish is typically topped with fried shallots and served with chili sauce on the side.
• Apam Balik Kampung
  A popular street food resembling a folded pancake, filled with ground peanuts, sugar, and sometimes corn or banana. The Sandakan version is known for its especially thin and crispy texture.
• Soto Sandakan
  A local variation of the Indonesian soto soup, featuring shredded chicken, rice cakes, bean sprouts, and egg in a fragrant, spiced broth. It's typically served with a side of sambal and fresh lime.
• Fresh Seafood
  As a coastal city, Sandakan is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly prawns, fish, and crabs. Seafood restaurants along the waterfront serve dishes prepared in various styles, including Chinese-influenced cooking methods popular in the region.

Traveling from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan offers an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage of Sabah. Whether you choose the quick convenience of a direct flight or opt for a more leisurely journey by road, this route connects two of Malaysian Borneo's most fascinating destinations. Book your flight through Traveloka today to secure the best fares and begin your adventure in Sabah's wildlife paradise.