Flight From Kuantan (KUA) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu Flight Guide – Routes, Airports & Travel Insights

Planning travel from Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu? Whether for business, adventure, or a family getaway, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate flight options, airport facilities, travel alternatives, and local experiences. Read on for the latest information and actionable tips to make your journey seamless and enjoyable.

Direct Flights

There are currently no direct flights from Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu. All available options require at least one layover, primarily at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). For the most up-to-date options, always check the latest schedule on the airline or Traveloka.

Layover Flights

While direct flights aren’t currently offered, you have multiple layover flight choices through Kuala Lumpur. Here are three representative options:

Flight 1

• Route: Kuantan (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines

• Total Flight Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes

• Aircraft: Boeing 737

• Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Layover Duration: 8 hours 20 minutes

Flight 2

• Route: Kuantan (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines

• Total Flight Duration: 7 hours 25 minutes

• Aircraft: Boeing 737

• Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Layover Duration: 7 hours 45 minutes

Flight 3

• Route: Kuantan (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)

• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines

• Total Flight Duration: 4 hours 40 minutes

• Aircraft: Boeing 737

• Layover: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Layover Duration: 1 hour 5 minutes

*Note: Flight schedules, durations, and layover times are subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly to ensure you have the latest updates before booking your journey.*

About Kuantan - Kuantan

Location

Kuantan is the capital city of Pahang, situated on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests, it’s a gateway to some of the most scenic coastal destinations in Malaysia.

Airport Terminal

Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (IATA: KUA) serves as Kuantan’s primary airport. It handles both domestic and a limited number of international flights and is located approximately 15 km southwest of Kuantan city center. For more information on flights, visit the Kuantan (KUA) page on Traveloka.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport from the city is straightforward:

• Taxi: Widely available and can be booked via app or hailed directly.

• Ride-Hailing Services: Popular options like Grab operate throughout the city.

• Public Bus: Several bus routes connect central Kuantan to the airport.

• Private Transfer: Hotels and transport companies often provide transfer services for a fee.

Facilities

The airport is equipped with:

• Check-in counters and baggage services

• Cafés and snack bars

• Car rental desks

• Waiting lounges

• Basic shopping options

• Prayer rooms and ATMs

Though compact, the airport offers sufficient amenities for a comfortable departure or arrival experience.

About Kota Kinabalu International Airport - Kota Kinabalu

Location

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (IATA: BKI) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and serves as the main entryway to the state of Sabah and Borneo’s northern region. It is located about 8 km southwest of Kota Kinabalu city center. Plan your journey via the Kota Kinabalu International Airport page on Traveloka.

Airport Terminal

The airport consists of two terminals:

• Terminal 1: Handles the majority of domestic and international flights with modern facilities and amenities.

• Terminal 2: Previously used for low-cost carriers but most operations have been consolidated into Terminal 1.

Transport From Airport

Travelers can easily reach downtown Kota Kinabalu from the airport by several means:

• Taxi: Safe and official taxi services are available from the arrival hall.

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Grab are available for convenient airport pickup.

• Bus: Regular shuttle buses connect the airport to the city and surrounding areas.

• Car Rental: Major car rental agencies have desks at the airport.

• Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfer services.

Facilities

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is a modern hub and offers:

• Extensive food and beverage outlets ranging from fast food to local cuisine

• Duty-free and retail shopping

• Comfortable lounges for business and economy travelers

• Free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and information counters

• Medical services and family-friendly amenities

• ATMs, currency exchange, and lost & found

FAQ Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu Flight

• What are the typical flight routes between Kuantan and Kota Kinabalu? Most travelers take a connecting flight via Kuala Lumpur, as there are currently no direct flights on this route.

• What airlines operate on the Kuantan–Kota Kinabalu route? Malaysia Airlines is the primary carrier offering connecting flights with a layover in Kuala Lumpur.

• What is the total journey time from Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu by air? Flight durations vary from about 4 hours 40 minutes to over 7 hours 30 minutes, depending on layover times at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

• How far is Kuantan Airport from the city center? Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport is about 15 km from downtown Kuantan.

• How far is Kota Kinabalu International Airport from the city center? The airport is located approximately 8 km southwest of central Kota Kinabalu.

• What are the baggage policies for these flights? Baggage allowances vary by ticket and class. Check your airline ticket for exact details before departure.

• Can I find overnight layovers on the Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu route? Yes, some flights offer long layovers or require overnight stays in Kuala Lumpur, depending on your chosen itinerary.

• Are flight schedules subject to change? Yes, schedules may change based on airline policies, operational requirements, or weather. Always confirm your booking close to your travel date.

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

Other Ways to Travel From Kuantan to Kota Kinabalu

If you wish to avoid flying, there are alternative, though much longer, options to consider:

• Land and Ferry Combination: Travel overland by bus or car from Kuantan to Johor Bahru or Kuala Lumpur, continue to Kota Kinabalu by ferry (from Labuan or Brunei) or overland through Sarawak and Brunei. Estimated travel time: Multiple days, depending on connections and waiting periods.

• Coach and Ferry to Borneo: Some adventurous travelers combine long-distance buses to ports in Sarawak, followed by regional ferries to Kota Kinabalu.

• Self-Drive (with Ferry): Driving from Peninsular Malaysia to Kota Kinabalu is possible by taking a ferry from Peninsular Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur or Johor) to Sarawak, then driving through Sarawak and Brunei into Sabah. Estimated duration: 2–4 days, factoring in border crossings and rest stops.

*Note: Overland and sea options require careful planning and may involve complex logistics and immigration requirements.*

Explore Kota Kinabalu

Popular Destinations in Kota Kinabalu

1. Mount Kinabalu: Malaysia’s highest peak, popular for trekking and nature expeditions.

2. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: A group of beautiful islands offering snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation.

3. Kota Kinabalu City Mosque: An iconic floating mosque on Likas Bay, renowned for its stunning design.

4. Gaya Street Sunday Market: A lively open-air market featuring local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.

5. Signal Hill Observatory Platform: The best place for panoramic views over Kota Kinabalu and the South China Sea.

Popular Cuisine in Kota Kinabalu

1. Seafood: Fresh catches from the South China Sea, served grilled or in local styles.

2. Ngiu Chap: A signature Sabah dish of beef noodles with flavorful broth and tender cuts.

3. Tuaran Mee: Hand-made egg noodles stir-fried with pork, vegetables, and a unique local touch.

4. Sang Nyuk Mee: Pork noodle soup with delicate slices of fresh pork and noodles in clear broth.

5. Hinava: A traditional Kadazan-Dusun raw fish salad marinated with lime and ginger.

For detailed booking information and the latest offers between Kuantan and Kota Kinabalu, always use Traveloka’s comprehensive search tools. Discover more about your departure airport on the Kuantan page and your arrival airport on the Kota Kinabalu International Airport page.

Travel well, explore more, and enjoy every moment from Kuantan to the heart of Borneo!