Flight From Penang (PEN) to Lahad Datu (LDU)

Connecting Worlds: Your Ultimate Guide to Penang to Lahad Datu Flights

Planning a trip from the vibrant cultural hub of Penang to the scenic coastal town of Lahad Datu? This comprehensive flight guide provides everything you need to know about traveling between these two Malaysian destinations. Whether you're heading to Lahad Datu for business, adventure, or leisure, understanding your flight options will help you plan a smooth journey across the Malaysian peninsula to Sabah's eastern coast.

The route from Penang to Lahad Datu spans approximately 1,988 kilometers across the South China Sea, connecting Malaysia's western peninsula with its eastern territory on Borneo island. While these two destinations offer distinctly different Malaysian experiences, modern air travel makes it possible to journey between them in just a single day.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available.

Currently, there are no airlines offering direct flight services between Penang International Airport (PEN) and Lahad Datu Airport (LDU). Travelers will need to take connecting flights with at least one layover to reach their destination.

Layover Flights

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

Airlines: Firefly, Malaysia Airlines

Total Flight Duration: 8h 10m

Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 72

Layovers:

• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia layover for 4h 25m

Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Lahad Datu (Malaysia)

Airlines: Malaysia Airlines

Total Flight Duration: 12h 55m

Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 72

Layovers:

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1h 35m
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia layover for 6h 40m (overnight)

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

About Penang Intl - Penang

serves as the main gateway to Penang Island, one of Malaysia's most beloved tourist destinations. As the third busiest airport in Malaysia, it connects travelers to various domestic and international destinations.

Location

Penang International Airport is situated in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital city of Penang. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible from all parts of the island, particularly from the popular tourist areas and business districts.

The airport is surrounded by the Free Industrial Zone, which houses many multinational technology companies, making it convenient for business travelers. Its proximity to the Penang Bridge also provides easy access for travelers coming from mainland Malaysia.

Airport Terminal

Penang International Airport features a modern terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is equipped with two levels - the ground floor primarily serves arrivals, while the first floor is dedicated to departures.

The airport underwent a significant expansion in 2013, which increased its capacity to handle up to 6.5 million passengers annually. The terminal is designed with a spacious layout that facilitates smooth passenger flow and features large glass panels that allow natural light to illuminate the interior spaces.

Transport to Airport

Getting to Penang International Airport is convenient with multiple transportation options available:

• Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis are readily available throughout Penang Island, and ride-sharing services like Grab operate extensively. The journey from George Town to the airport typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Public Bus: Rapid Penang operates several bus routes that serve the airport, including routes 102, 306, and 401E. These buses connect the airport to various parts of Penang Island, including George Town, Batu Ferringhi, and Balik Pulau.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, offering a range of vehicles for those who prefer to drive themselves.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in Penang offer shuttle services to and from the airport for their guests, often at a nominal fee or complimentary for certain room bookings.

Facilities

Penang International Airport offers a comprehensive range of facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers:

• Dining and Shopping: The airport houses numerous food outlets ranging from local Malaysian cuisine to international fast-food chains. Shopping options include duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and convenience stores.
• Lounges: Premium lounges are available for business class passengers and members of certain airline loyalty programs. The Plaza Premium Lounge also offers access to all travelers for a fee.
• Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building, with numerous charging stations for electronic devices.
• Banking and Currency Exchange: ATMs and currency exchange counters are conveniently located within the terminal.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer rooms for Muslim travelers are available in both the domestic and international departure areas.
• Medical Services: A medical center provides basic healthcare services for passengers in need of assistance.
• Special Assistance: The airport offers wheelchair services and special assistance for elderly passengers, those with reduced mobility, or travelers with other special needs.

About Lahad Datu Airport - Lahad Datu

is a domestic airport serving the town of Lahad Datu in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. While smaller than many international airports, it plays a crucial role in connecting this eastern Sabah region with major cities in Malaysia.

Location

Lahad Datu Airport is located approximately 6 kilometers from Lahad Datu town center. The airport serves as an important gateway to eastern Sabah, providing access to several nearby attractions including the famous Danum Valley Conservation Area, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, and the pristine diving spots of the Celebes Sea.

The airport's strategic position makes it an essential entry point for both conservation researchers and eco-tourists visiting the biodiversity-rich rainforests of eastern Sabah. Its coastal location also serves travelers heading to the nearby marine parks and islands.

Airport Terminal

Lahad Datu Airport features a single-story terminal building that handles all domestic arrivals and departures. Though modest in size, the terminal is designed to efficiently process passengers with minimal waiting times.

The compact nature of the terminal means that all facilities are within easy walking distance, eliminating the need for shuttle services or extensive walking that is common in larger airports. The terminal building is air-conditioned and provides basic amenities for travelers.

Transport From Airport

Transportation options from Lahad Datu Airport to the town and surrounding areas include:

• Taxis: Taxis are the most convenient way to travel from the airport to Lahad Datu town or other destinations in the region. They usually operate on a fixed-fare basis rather than using meters.
• Car Rental: Limited car rental services may be available at the airport or can be arranged in advance through agencies in Lahad Datu town.
• Hotel Transfers: Many hotels and resorts in the area, particularly those catering to tourists visiting the wildlife reserves, offer pre-arranged airport transfers. It is advisable to arrange these in advance.
• Tour Operators: For travelers heading directly to wildlife reserves or conservation areas, many tour operators provide pick-up services from the airport as part of package tours.

Facilities

Lahad Datu Airport offers basic but essential facilities for travelers:

• Waiting Area: The terminal has a comfortable waiting area with seating for departing passengers.
• Food and Beverages: There are limited food and beverage options within the terminal, typically consisting of small cafes or kiosks serving snacks and drinks.
• Retail: Basic retail facilities may be available, offering essentials, local products, and souvenirs.
• Information Counter: An information counter provides assistance to travelers, including details about local attractions and transportation options.
• Restrooms: Clean restroom facilities are available throughout the terminal.
• Wi-Fi: Limited Wi-Fi connectivity may be available in certain areas of the terminal.

While Lahad Datu Airport doesn't offer the extensive amenities of larger international airports, it provides all the essential services needed for domestic travel within Malaysia, with a focus on efficiency and convenience for passengers traveling to this unique region of Sabah.

FAQ Penang to Lahad Datu Flight

• Question: How long does it take to fly from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Since there are no direct flights between Penang and Lahad Datu, the total journey time depends on the connecting flights and layover duration. Typically, the fastest connections take approximately 8 hours 10 minutes, while routes with longer layovers can take up to 12-13 hours or more.
• Question: What is the best airline to fly from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are the primary carriers operating connecting flights between these destinations. The best option depends on your schedule preferences, budget, and loyalty program memberships. Both airlines offer reliable service with professional standards.
• Question: How many flights are there per week from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Flight frequency varies depending on the season and current airline schedules. Generally, there are multiple connecting options available each day, though specific routing through Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur will have different availability patterns throughout the week.
• Question: What is the cheapest month to fly from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Flight prices typically fluctuate based on seasonal demand, with lower prices often available during off-peak tourism periods in Sabah (generally during the rainy season from November to February). Booking 2-3 months in advance and using Traveloka's price comparison tools can help you find the best deals.
• Question: What documents do I need to fly from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: As both cities are within Malaysia, Malaysian citizens only need their MyKad (national ID card) for domestic travel. International visitors must carry their passport and any relevant visas or permits required for their stay in Malaysia. It's always advisable to carry identification even for domestic travel.
• Question: Is there a time difference between Penang and Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Yes, there is a time difference. Lahad Datu, being in East Malaysia (Sabah), is one hour ahead of Penang, which follows West Malaysia time. When it's 10:00 AM in Penang, it's 11:00 AM in Lahad Datu.
• Question: What are the luggage allowances for flights from Penang to Lahad Datu?
  Answer: Luggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class. Generally, Malaysia Airlines offers 30kg for economy class on domestic routes, while Firefly typically allows 20kg. Always verify the specific allowance for your ticket with the airline or through your Traveloka booking details, especially when connecting flights are involved.
• Question: Can I earn frequent flyer miles on Penang to Lahad Datu flights?
  Answer: Yes, flights operated by Malaysia Airlines earn miles with their Enrich frequent flyer program or partner programs within the Oneworld alliance. Firefly flights may earn Malaysia Airlines Enrich miles as well, depending on the fare class purchased. Check with your frequent flyer program for specific earning rates and eligibility.

Other Ways to Travel From Penang to Lahad Datu

While flying is the most practical way to travel between Penang and Lahad Datu due to the geographical separation (with the South China Sea between them), there are alternative routes for those interested in a more adventurous journey:

• Sea and Land Combination:
  • Ferry from Penang to Butterworth (45 minutes)
  • Train or bus from Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur (4-5 hours)
  • Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau (2.5 hours)
  • Bus from Tawau to Lahad Datu (3 hours)
  Total duration: Approximately 10-12 hours plus connection waiting times
• Extended Land and Sea Journey (for adventure travelers):
  • Ferry from Penang to Butterworth (45 minutes)
  • Train or bus to Johor Bahru (8-10 hours)
  • Ferry from Johor to Batam, Indonesia (1 hour)
  • Ferry from Batam to various ports in East Malaysia (multiple days)
  • Land transport to Lahad Datu (varies)
  Total duration: 3-5 days depending on connections and stops
• Road Trip Option (via Brunei):
  • Drive from Penang to Kuantan (6 hours)
  • Ferry from Kuantan to Kuching (20+ hours)
  • Drive from Kuching through Brunei to Sabah (15+ hours)
  • Drive from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu (6-7 hours)
  Total duration: 3-4 days minimum

These alternative routes are significantly more time-consuming than flying and require multiple transfers between different modes of transportation. They are more suitable for travelers interested in experiencing the journey itself rather than reaching Lahad Datu quickly.

Explore Lahad Datu

Lahad Datu, located on the eastern coast of Sabah, offers visitors a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and historical sites. This growing town serves as a gateway to some of Borneo's most precious ecological treasures.

Popular Destinations in Lahad Datu

• Danum Valley Conservation Area: One of Borneo's most important conservation areas, Danum Valley houses ancient primary rainforest with incredible biodiversity. Visitors can spot orangutans, pygmy elephants, clouded leopards and over 270 bird species. The conservation area offers canopy walkways, jungle trekking, night safaris, and research facilities that attract scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
• Tabin Wildlife Reserve: Covering over 120,000 hectares, this reserve is home to endangered wildlife including the Sumatran rhinoceros, Asian elephants, and tembadau (wild cattle). The reserve features natural mud volcanoes and salt licks that attract wildlife, making it an excellent location for animal observation and photography.
• Madai Caves: These limestone caves are famous for the harvesting of edible bird's nests, a centuries-old tradition of the local communities. The caves themselves are impressive natural formations, and during certain seasons, visitors can observe the traditional and dangerous practice of bird's nest collection.
• Darvel Bay: This expansive bay offers beautiful coastal scenery and access to numerous small islands. The waters are rich in marine life, making it popular for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Coastal villages along the bay provide insights into the traditional way of life of Sabah's seaside communities.
• Silam Coast Conservation Area: Located south of Lahad Datu town, this coastal conservation area protects mangrove forests and marine ecosystems. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, particularly for spotting migratory shorebirds, and offers educational walks through mangrove boardwalks that highlight the importance of these coastal ecosystems.

Popular Cuisine in Lahad Datu

• Seafood Specialties: Being a coastal town, Lahad Datu offers excellent fresh seafood prepared in various styles. Local restaurants serve everything from butter prawns and chili crabs to steamed fish with ginger and soy sauce. Many establishments offer seafood caught the same day, ensuring maximum freshness.
• Bajau Cuisine: The Bajau people, known as "Sea Gypsies," have a distinctive cuisine that features seafood prepared with minimal spices to highlight natural flavors. Specialties include hinava (similar to ceviche, made with raw fish marinated in lime juice), and pinasakan (fish preserved with fermented fruit and cooked with bambangan, a local mango variety).
• Forest Produce and Wild Game: Traditional dishes may incorporate ingredients sourced from the surrounding forests, including wild ferns, bamboo shoots, and occasionally, wild boar. These ingredients are typically prepared in simple ways that highlight their unique flavors and textures.
• Sabah Rice Dishes: Special rice preparations include nasi kuning (yellow rice colored with turmeric) and nasi himpit (compressed rice cakes), often served with a variety of flavorful accompaniments. These dishes are particularly popular during celebrations and festivals.
• Multicultural Fusion: Lahad Datu's diverse population has led to interesting culinary fusions that blend Chinese, Malay, indigenous, and Indonesian cooking techniques and flavors. Look for restaurants serving specialties like mee Sandakan (a unique noodle dish), soto Bajau (a spicy soup), and various satay preparations that reflect this cultural melting pot.

Lahad Datu may not be as well-known as other Malaysian destinations, but its natural treasures and authentic cultural experiences make it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking to explore beyond the usual tourist paths. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a culinary explorer, Lahad Datu offers memorable experiences that showcase the rich biological and cultural diversity of Malaysian Borneo.

When planning your trip from Penang to Lahad Datu, consider booking your flights through Traveloka for competitive prices, easy comparison of different routes, and seamless booking experience. With the right preparation and information, your journey between these two distinct Malaysian destinations can be the beginning of an unforgettable travel adventure.