Flight From Kuching (KCH) to Tawau (TWU)

Traveling from Kuching to Tawau is a journey that bridges the vibrant capital city of Sarawak, renowned for its rich history and cultural fusion, with Tawau, a bustling town at the southeastern tip of Sabah known for its natural wonders and seafood delights. While there are currently no direct flights between these two Malaysian destinations, travelers can conveniently reach Tawau via a variety of layover flight options, ensuring you have flexible choices for your travel itinerary. This comprehensive guide presents layover flight information, airport insights, practical travel tips, and a glimpse into all that awaits in Tawau.

Direct Flights

There are no direct flights available from Kuching to Tawau at this time. Travelers are advised to consider layover flights, which are detailed below.

Layover Flights

Despite the absence of direct services, multiple airlines offer connecting routes between Kuching and Tawau. Here are the most prominent layover options:

• Route: Kuching (KCH) → Kota Kinabalu (BKI) → Tawau (TWU)
• Airlines: Firefly
• Total Flight Duration: 13 hours 25 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 737
• Layovers: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), layover for 11 hours (overnight)

• Route: Kuching (KCH) → Kuala Lumpur (KUL) → Tawau (TWU)
• Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
• Total Flight Duration: 10 hours 40 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 737
• Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), layover for 5 hours 55 minutes

• Route: Kuching (KCH) → Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) → Tawau (TWU)
• Airlines: Batik Air
• Total Flight Duration: 13 hours 55 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 737
• Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), layover for 9 hours (overnight)

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

About Kuching International Airport - Kuching

Location

Kuching International Airport is situated approximately 11 kilometers south of Kuching city center, providing easy and quick access for travelers departing from or arriving in the Sarawak capital.

Airport Terminal

The single terminal at Kuching International Airport is modern, spacious, and well-organized, catering to both domestic and international flights. It features dedicated arrival and departure halls, clear signage, and efficient security and immigration processes.

Transport to Airport

Passengers can reach Kuching International Airport via several convenient transportation options:

• Taxi: Readily available throughout the city; the journey typically takes about 20–30 minutes.
• Ride-hailing services: Popular services such as Grab operate extensively in Kuching.
• Public Bus: Some bus routes stop near the airport, but taxis or ride-sharing are generally more efficient for travelers with luggage.

Facilities

Kuching International Airport offers a range of amenities for a comfortable experience:

• Shops & Duty-Free Outlets: A selection of retail stores and duty-free for last-minute shopping.
• Food & Beverage: Multiple cafes, fast-food outlets, and local eateries serving diverse cuisines.
• Lounge: Premium lounges are available for travelers seeking additional comfort.
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the terminal.
• ATMs & Currency Exchange: Banking facilities ensure you’re prepared for your journey.
• Car Rental Desks: Several providers operate at the arrivals area.

For more details on flights, schedules, and services, visit Kuching International Airport.

About Tawau Airport - Tawau

Location

Tawau Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Tawau town center, serving as the main gateway to Malaysia’s southeastern Sabah region and nearby islands.

Airport Terminal

The airport’s terminal, although smaller compared to major Malaysian airports, is efficient and supports the steady flow of domestic arrivals and departures. It includes clear signage, accessible gates, and friendly airport staff to assist travelers.

Transport From Airport

Travelers have several transportation choices for the journey from Tawau Airport to the city or surrounding regions:

• Taxi: The most straightforward way; taxis are available at designated airport stands.
• Car Rental: Multiple agencies operate at the airport for travelers seeking flexible exploration.
• Transport Services: Pre-arranged shuttles or private hires are available, especially for those connecting to Semporna and the islands.

Facilities

Tawau Airport provides a comfortable travel environment with amenities including:

• Food Outlets: Local cafés and snack bars for refreshments upon arrival or before departure.
• Shops: Convenient stores for travel essentials and souvenirs.
• Prayer Room: Designated Muslim prayer rooms (surau) are available for spiritual needs.
• Wi-Fi: Free internet access for travelers.
• ATM & Currency Exchange: Financial services for convenience.

Learn more about the airport or browse updated flights at Tawau Airport.

FAQ Kuching to Tawau Flight

• How far is Kuching from Tawau by air? The aerial distance between Kuching and Tawau is approximately 913 kilometers.
• Are there direct flights from Kuching to Tawau? No, there are currently no direct flights. Travel between these cities requires at least one layover.
• Which airlines operate flights from Kuching to Tawau? The main airlines serving this route with layovers include Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, and Batik Air.
• What is the fastest layover flight available? The quickest layover option is typically via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, with a combined total duration of approximately 10 hours 40 minutes. Flight times and schedules may vary.
• Do I need to collect my checked baggage at the layover airport? If your flights are booked on a single ticket with interline agreements, your baggage may be transferred automatically. Otherwise, you may be required to collect and re-check it. Always confirm with your airline.
• Can I spend the night in the layover airport? Yes, both Kota Kinabalu International and Kuala Lumpur International airports have facilities where passengers can rest overnight; however, amenities and comfort will vary.
• How early should I arrive at the airport before my flight? It is recommended to check in at least two hours before departure for domestic routes, but earlier arrival is advisable during peak seasons or if you have luggage to check.
• How can I find the most updated flight schedules and fares? The best way is to check directly on Traveloka, where schedules, fares, and real-time availability are kept current.

Other Ways to Travel From Kuching to Tawau

While flying offers the most practical and time-efficient route from Kuching to Tawau, alternative travel options are available, though significantly longer and more complex:

• Land and Sea: One could take a combination of overland buses and trains from Kuching to Sabah (via Brunei and Limbang), then continue to Tawau. This journey typically involves multiple transfers, visa checks at borders, and ferries across major rivers, taking several days to complete.
• Ferry (via Sabah): There is no direct ferry from Kuching to Tawau. However, travelers can reach Kota Kinabalu by ferry from Labuan, then continue overland or by air to Tawau.
• Self-Drive: Driving from Kuching to Tawau requires crossing into Brunei and multiple Malaysian states, with a travel distance of over 1,500 kilometers and a travel time well in excess of 24 hours, not accounting for overnight stops.

For most travelers, flying remains the most reliable and convenient method.

Explore Tawau

Popular Destination in Tawau

• Tawau Hills Park A beautifully preserved rainforest park, perfect for nature walks, waterfall visits, and viewing the world’s tallest tropical tree.
• Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Discover Tawau’s reputation as the “Cocoa Capital” of Malaysia through interactive exhibits and chocolate sampling.
• Bukit Gemok (Fat Hill) A favorite hiking spot offering panoramic views of Tawau and its surroundings.
• Tawau Tanjung Market Dive into local life at Malaysia’s largest indoor market, known for fresh produce, spices, and seafood.
• Coway Hot Spring Located within Tawau Hills Park, these natural hot springs offer a unique and relaxing experience.

Popular Cuisine in Tawau

• Seafood Bak Kut Teh A Tawau specialty, this herbal soup combines fresh seafood with traditional flavors.
• UFO Tart A unique dessert with a soft cake base topped with custard and a dollop of cream—a beloved local treat.
• Indo-Malay Cuisine Reflecting Tawau’s multicultural heritage, try dishes such as Nasi Kuning and Soto Banjar.
• Fresh Grilled Fish Savor the catch of the day at seaside restaurants or lively night markets.
• Latok (Sea Grapes) Salad A crunchy seaweed delicacy, often served with spicy sambal and lime.

Kuching and Tawau each offer distinct experiences, but traveling between them is simple with the range of flight connections available. Book your journey with Traveloka for seamless arrangements, from comparing fares and flight times to securing your ticket and planning your adventure in Malaysia’s stunning Borneo region.