Flight From Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK)

Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan opens the door to one of Malaysia’s most captivating regions, famed for its lush rainforests, wildlife, and rich heritage. Whether you’re planning a seamless business trip or an unforgettable holiday adventure, understanding your flight options and the airports involved ensures a smooth travel experience. This guide provides comprehensive insights into direct and layover flights, airport details, FAQs, alternative travel options, and top attractions in Sandakan, empowering you to book your journey confidently on Traveloka.

Direct Flights

Choosing a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan guarantees the quickest and most convenient experience, minimizing travel fatigue and maximizing your time in Sabah’s nature paradise. Here are your primary direct flight choices:

Airline: Batik Air

• Average Flight Duration: 2h 50m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger

Batik Air, formerly known as Malindo Air, operates regular direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Sandakan using the modern and efficient Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger. Passengers enjoy a smooth journey with Batik Air's renowned service and flexible fare options.

Airline: AirAsia

• Average Flight Duration: 2h 50m
• Aircraft Used: Airbus A320

AirAsia offers multiple direct flights daily from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan, all operated with the reliable Airbus A320. Typical departures are at 06:25, 09:40, and 18:35, catering to early birds, mid-morning travelers, and evening flyers alike.

Airline: Malaysia Airlines

• Average Flight Duration: 3h
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737

Malaysia Airlines connects Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan with a direct morning service, typically departing at 10:25. The airline operates the comfortable Boeing 737, providing both economy and business class options for travelers who value flexibility and premium service.

Unique Aircraft Across Direct Flights:

• Boeing 737
• Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger
• Airbus A320

These aircraft are celebrated for their safety, comfort, and modern amenities, ensuring every traveler arrives in Sandakan refreshed and ready to explore.

Layover Flights

For travelers who don’t mind a longer journey or are seeking specific connections, there are several layover routes from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan. Here are three notable options, each offering an alternative route with varying layover durations and opportunities to experience additional destinations within Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur → Kota Kinabalu → Sandakan

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Firefly
• Total Flight Duration: 12h 45m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
• Layover:
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI): 9h 20m (overnight)

This route involves a substantial overnight layover in Kota Kinabalu, enabling travelers to rest or briefly explore Sabah’s bustling capital before continuing to Sandakan. It's well-suited for those with flexible schedules or those wanting to experience more of Sabah's destinations.

Kuala Lumpur → Kota Kinabalu → Lahad Datu → Sandakan

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines (including flights operated by Maswings)
• Total Flight Duration: 11h 35m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737, ATR 72
• Layovers:
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI): 6h 40m (overnight)
• Lahad Datu Airport (LDU): 50m

This combined route offers an overnight in Kota Kinabalu and a brief stop in Lahad Datu, offering new perspectives on Sabah’s diverse towns.

Kuala Lumpur → Kota Kinabalu → Lahad Datu → Sandakan

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines (including flights operated by Maswings)
• Total Flight Duration: 11h 35m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737, ATR 72
• Layovers:
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI): 7h 10m (overnight)
• Lahad Datu Airport (LDU): 20m

Similar to the previous option, this itinerary offers an extended stay in Kota Kinabalu with a swift transfer in Lahad Datu.

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

About Kuala Lumpur International Airport - Kuala Lumpur

Location

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is located in Sepang, Selangor, approximately 45 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur city center. As Malaysia’s main international gateway, it offers easy access to the capital and surrounding regions.

Airport Terminal

KLIA comprises two main terminals: KLIA Main Terminal (Terminal 1) and KLIA2. Terminal 1 serves full-service airlines, including Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air, while Terminal 2 primarily serves low-cost carriers such as AirAsia. Both terminals offer international and domestic services.

Transport to Airport

• Express Rail Link (ERL): KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit provide direct, high-speed train service between KL Sentral and the airport, taking just 28 minutes.
• Taxi & Ride-Sharing: Metered taxis, Grab, and other ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Kuala Lumpur.
• Bus: Airport coach services and public buses connect the airport with various city points.
• Private Car: Ample parking facilities and drop-off zones are available for those driving to KLIA.

For more information and flight options, visit the Kuala Lumpur International Airport page.

Facilities

KLIA offers a wide range of amenities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Restaurants, cafes, and food courts with local and international cuisine
• Duty-free and retail shops
• Lounges for premium and business travelers
• Currency exchange and ATMs
• Prayer rooms
• Luggage storage and lost & found
• Medical clinics and pharmacies

About Sandakan Airport - Sandakan

Location

Sandakan Airport (SDK) is situated just 9 kilometers west of Sandakan city center, providing quick access to the town and its surrounding attractions.

Airport Terminal

The airport features a modern, single-passenger terminal designed for efficient arrivals and departures. It primarily serves domestic flights but is strategically located for connections to Sabah’s eastern attractions.

Transport From Airport

• Taxi: Metered taxis are available outside the arrival hall, offering quick rides into downtown Sandakan.
• Ride-Sharing: Grab and other ride-hailing apps are widely used in Sandakan for affordable and convenient transport.
• Car Rental: Multiple car rental services operate at the airport, ideal for travelers planning to explore the broader region.
• Shuttle Bus: Some hotels and resorts offer dedicated shuttle services for guests.

For more details, check out the Sandakan Airport page.

Facilities

Sandakan Airport provides essential amenities for a comfortable transition:

• Comfortable waiting lounges
• Food stalls, cafes, and vending machines
• Retail shops and souvenir outlets
• Free public Wi-Fi
• Information counters and baggage services
• Accessible facilities for travelers with disabilities

FAQ Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan Flight

• What is the typical flight duration from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan? The average direct flight duration is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with slight variations depending on the airline and weather conditions.
• Which airlines operate direct flights on this route? Batik Air, AirAsia, and Malaysia Airlines provide direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan.
• Are there daily flights between Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan? Yes, multiple direct flights are available daily, especially from AirAsia, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
• What types of aircraft are used for direct flights? The main aircraft used are Boeing 737MAX 8 Passenger (Batik Air), Airbus A320 (AirAsia), and Boeing 737 (Malaysia Airlines).
• What is the best time to book to get the lowest fare? Booking in advance, especially during off-peak seasons, usually yields the best fares. Monitor Traveloka for real-time promotions and flash sales.
• How early should I arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for my flight? It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights to allow time for check-in and security procedures.
• Can I change or cancel my flight after booking? Most airlines allow changes or cancellations, subject to their fare conditions and fees. Always review the terms before confirming your booking on Traveloka.
• Are meals provided on board the direct flights? Batik Air and Malaysia Airlines may offer complimentary meals, especially on longer flights, while AirAsia typically offers meals for purchase.

Other Ways to Travel From Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan

While flying is the fastest and most practical method of traveling between Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan, adventurous travelers can consider other modes—though these are significantly longer and require meticulous planning.

• By Land and Ferry:
  • Route: Kuala Lumpur → Kota Kinabalu (by train/bus) → Sandakan (by bus or domestic flight; no direct land route due to Borneo’s geography and the South China Sea).
  • Duration: Over 24 hours, often much longer, including ferry rides and bus transfers. This route also typically requires transit through Brunei or Indonesian Kalimantan.
• By Train/Bus: There is currently no continuous railway linking Kuala Lumpur and Sandakan. Combining train, bus, and ferry segments is possible but highly time-consuming and complex.
• By Car: Self-drive is only possible within Sabah after a flight; traveling from Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah by car involves shipping the vehicle across the sea, which is rarely practical for tourists.

Explore Sandakan

Sandakan is Sabah’s hidden gem, renowned for its biodiversity, history, and welcoming culture. Here’s what to look forward to on your visit:

Popular Destinations in Sandakan

• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Observe rescued orangutans up close in their natural rainforest habitat.
• Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Dedicated to the conservation of the world's smallest bear, the endangered Sun Bear.
• Sandakan Memorial Park A moving tribute to WWII prisoners of war, set in a tranquil park.
• Kinabatangan River Malaysia’s second-longest river, famous for its wildlife cruises and eco-tours.
• Rainforest Discovery Centre Ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers with canopy walks and educational trails.

Popular Cuisine in Sandakan

• Seafood Bak Kut Teh A distinctive Sandakan twist on the classic herbal soup, loaded with fresh seafood.
• Sandakan UFO Tart A local pastry favorite, featuring a creamy custard topping on buttery tart.
• Mee Tuaran Egg noodles stir-fried with pork or seafood, a signature Sabah dish found widely in Sandakan.
• Fresh Grilled Seafood Sandakan’s proximity to the sea ensures access to the freshest fish, crabs, and prawns.
• Teh C Peng Special A three-layered iced milk tea that’s both visually stunning and refreshingly sweet.

For seamless booking, personalized recommendations, and exclusive deals, trust Traveloka to handle your next adventure from Kuala Lumpur to Sandakan and beyond. Explore the skies with confidence and convenience, and immerse yourself in all that Sandakan has to offer.