Direct Flights
No direct flight available.
Layover Flights
Due to the absence of direct routes, travelers flying from Penang to Koh Samui must transit through at least one or two major Southeast Asian hubs. Here are three of the most reliable and popular connecting flight routes:
- Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Bangkok (Thailand) → Samui (Thailand)
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Bangkok Airways
- Total Flight Duration: 7 hours 45 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A319
- Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand – 2 hours 5 minutes
- Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Phuket (Thailand) → Samui (Thailand)
- Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Bangkok Airways
- Total Flight Duration: 9 hours 5 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 42/72
- Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 2 hours 15 minutes
- Phuket International Airport (HKT), Phuket, Thailand – 3 hours 15 minutes
- Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Singapore (Singapore) → Samui (Thailand)
- Airlines: Singapore Airlines, Bangkok Airways
- Total Flight Duration: 6 hours 55 minutes
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A319
- Layovers:
- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore – 3 hours 20 minutes
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Penang Intl - Penang
Location
Penang International Airport (PEN) is located in Bayan Lepas, about 16 km south of George Town, Penang’s capital city. The airport is conveniently situated for both local and international travelers, with easy access to Penang’s main tourist, commercial, and historical districts.
Airport Terminal
Penang International Airport features a single, modern terminal building handling both arrivals and departures for domestic and international flights. The terminal is designed to manage high passenger volumes efficiently, especially during peak travel periods and festival seasons.
Transport to Airport
Getting to Penang International Airport is straightforward:
- Taxi: Metered taxis are readily available 24/7. The journey from George Town usually takes about 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Bus: Rapid Penang operates multiple bus routes (401, 401E, 102) connecting the airport to major city locations and bus terminals.
- Private Transfers/Car Rentals: Many travelers prefer booking private car services or renting a car for convenience, especially if traveling with family or bulky luggage.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Grab operate widely in Penang and provide a cashless, convenient alternative to taxis.
For booking and further airport information, visit the Penang Intl page.
Facilities
Penang International Airport is well-equipped with services and amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Multiple dining options, including local restaurants, coffee shops, and fast food chains
- Duty-free shopping and convenience stores
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Luggage storage and lost & found services
- Baby care rooms and prayer rooms
- Car rental counters and tour agencies
- Ample seating, charging points, and information desks
About Samui Airport - Koh Samui
Location
Samui Airport (USM) is located about 2 km north of Chaweng Beach and just a short drive from the island's major resorts and tourist districts. Its central location allows for quick transfers to most parts of Koh Samui, making it one of Thailand’s most visitor-friendly airports.
Airport Terminal
Samui Airport is famous for its unique open-air layout, tropical landscaping, and thatched-roof terminals that blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty. It has two terminals: one for domestic and one for international flights, both within easy walking distance.
Transport From Airport
Travelers have convenient ways to reach their accommodation from Samui Airport:
- Airport Shuttle/Minivan: Fixed-price shuttle vans serve all major hotels and beaches on the island. Tickets can be booked at airport counters.
- Taxi: Official airport taxis operate with fixed rates to various destinations; rates are displayed at taxi counters inside the terminal.
- Car Rentals: Local and international car rental agencies have desks at the arrivals area.
- Private Transfers: Most resorts offer private transfer services upon prior request.
- Motorbike Rentals: Available for experienced riders who wish to explore the island independently.
For more details on arrivals, departures, and airport services, see the Samui Airport page.
Facilities
Despite its boutique size, Samui Airport offers travelers a premium experience:
- Air-conditioned lounges and VIP rooms
- Multiple cafes, bakeries, and snack bars
- Souvenir shops and duty-free outlets
- Currency exchange and ATM facilities
- Free Wi-Fi in the terminal
- Information counters with tourist maps and assistance
- Restrooms and baby changing rooms
- Medical services and first aid
- Eco-friendly golf buggies for passenger transfers between terminals
FAQ Penang to Koh Samui Flight
- How long does it take to fly from Penang to Koh Samui?
Flight durations vary by route and layover times but generally range from approximately 7 hours to 9 hours including layovers. - Are there any direct flights from Penang to Koh Samui?
Currently, there are no direct flights between Penang and Koh Samui. All routes require at least one layover, usually in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Phuket, or Singapore. - What are the main airlines operating on this route?
Popular airlines include Malaysia Airlines, Bangkok Airways, and Singapore Airlines. - How far in advance should I book my flight?
It’s advisable to book at least three to four weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or public holidays. - Which airports will I transit through when traveling from Penang to Koh Samui?
Common transit points include Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok), Phuket International Airport, and Singapore Changi Airport. - Is visa required for Malaysian citizens to visit Koh Samui?
Malaysian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 30 days in Thailand for tourism purposes. - What is the typical baggage allowance on these flights?
Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class. Generally, economy class tickets include 20–30 kg of checked baggage. Always confirm with your airline before departure. - Are there vegetarian or halal meal options on the flights?
Most major airlines provide special meal requests, including vegetarian and halal options. Ensure you request your meal preference during booking or at least 48 hours before your flight.
Other Ways to Travel From Penang to Koh Samui
Besides flying, adventurous travelers may consider a combination of land and sea transport for a more scenic journey:
- Bus + Ferry:
Take a bus from Penang to Surat Thani in southern Thailand (via Hat Yai). From Surat Thani, transfer to the ferry pier (Donsak Pier) for a ferry service to Koh Samui. Total travel time is typically around 10 to 14 hours, depending on connections and border procedures. - Train + Bus + Ferry:
Board the train from Butterworth (Penang) to Surat Thani Railway Station. From Surat Thani, take a bus or minivan to Donsak Pier, then catch a ferry to Koh Samui. This multi-modal option also takes about 12 to 16 hours depending on transfer times and schedules. - Private Car/Taxi + Ferry:
Some travelers opt for private car hire or taxi service to the Thai border (Sadao), continuing to Donsak Pier and onward by ferry.
Do note that while overland options are often more economical, they require advance planning and patience due to border crossing formalities and longer transit times.
Explore Koh Samui
Popular Destinations in Koh Samui
- Chaweng Beach
The island’s most famous stretch of sand, bustling with nightlife, water sports, and world-class resorts. - Lamai Beach
A slightly quieter alternative to Chaweng, known for its laid-back vibe, restaurants, and beautiful rocky shoreline. - Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
A landmark golden statue set on a small island connected to Koh Samui, perfect for cultural exploration. - Fisherman’s Village, Bophut
A charming coastal area offering boutique shopping, chic bars, and the famous Friday Night Walking Street market. - Hin Ta & Hin Yai Rocks
The island’s quirky “Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks” draw visitors with their unusual shapes and ocean views.
Popular Cuisine in Koh Samui
- Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Fragrant, spicy-sour soup with local seafood, a must-try in local restaurants. - Gaeng Som Pla (Sour Fish Curry)
A southern Thai specialty featuring fresh fish in a tangy yellow curry broth. - Khao Phad Samui (Samui Fried Rice)
Local fried rice, often with seafood, pineapple, and tropical flavors. - Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad)
A zesty Thai salad, perfect for beating the tropical heat. - Coconut Ice Cream
Samui’s coconuts are legendary—this sweet treat is widely available at markets and beach stalls.
For the latest flight availability, fares, and seamless booking experience, start your search with Traveloka. Discover all the details for your departure at Penang Intl and arrivals at Samui Airport. Enjoy your journey from Penang to Koh Samui and experience the best of island-hopping in Southeast Asia!