Your Ultimate Guide to Flights from Penang to Melbourne
Looking for comprehensive information about flights from Penang to Melbourne? You've come to the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about flying between these two vibrant cities, including available flight routes, airport details, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey across the 6,595 km distance separating Penang and Melbourne.
Direct Flights
No direct flight available.
Layover Flights
Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Melbourne (Australia)
- Airlines: Batik Air
- Total Flight Duration: 19h 15m
- Aircraft: Boeing 737, Airbus A330
- Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 9h 45m (overnight)
Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Singapore (Singapore) → Melbourne (Australia)
- Airlines: Scoot
- Total Flight Duration: 11h 40m
- Aircraft: Airbus A320neo, Boeing 787
- Layovers: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 2h 55m (overnight)
Route: Penang (Malaysia) → Singapore (Singapore) → Melbourne (Australia)
- Airlines: Jetstar
- Total Flight Duration: 30h 50m
- Aircraft: Airbus A320, Boeing 787
- Layovers: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore layover for 22h 5m (overnight)
The provided layover flights vary significantly in total duration, ranging from approximately 12 to 31 hours, and include overnight layovers enhancing passenger convenience for potentially less stressful connections. These routes are served by various aircraft models, including the wide-body Boeing 787 and Airbus A330 for longer segments, ensuring comfort during extended travels.
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Penang Intl - Penang
Location
Penang Intl is located approximately 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital city of Penang. Situated in Bayan Lepas, the airport serves as the main gateway to Penang Island, one of Malaysia's most popular tourist destinations. Its strategic location provides convenient access to various parts of the island, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, Batu Ferringhi beach area, and numerous industrial zones.
Airport Terminal
Penang International Airport features a modern terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is well-designed with a single-level layout that makes navigation straightforward for travelers. The international departure area is equipped with immigration counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates, all designed to process passengers efficiently. The domestic section is similarly well-organized, ensuring a smooth travel experience regardless of your destination.
Transport to Airport
Getting to Penang International Airport is convenient with several transportation options available:
- Taxi/Ride-hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available throughout Penang and offer door-to-door service to the airport. The journey from George Town typically takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
- Public Bus: Rapid Penang operates bus routes 401, 401E, and 102 that connect various parts of Penang to the airport. These buses are affordable and run regularly throughout the day.
- Car Rental: For those who prefer driving themselves, car rental services are available in Penang, with drop-off points at the airport.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in Penang offer shuttle services to and from the airport, either complimentary or for a nominal fee.
Facilities
Penang International Airport offers a range of facilities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience:
- Dining Options: Various restaurants, cafes, and food kiosks serving local and international cuisine.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and convenience outlets for last-minute purchases.
- Currency Exchange and ATMs: Multiple counters and machines throughout the terminal.
- Free WiFi: Complimentary wireless internet access throughout the airport.
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers.
- Lounges: Premium lounges offering comfortable seating, refreshments, and business facilities.
- Medical Services: First aid services and a medical center for emergencies.
- Baggage Services: Left luggage facilities, baggage wrapping, and lost and found counter.
About Melbourne Airport - Melbourne
Location
Melbourne Airport, also known as Tullamarine Airport, is located approximately 23 kilometers northwest of Melbourne's central business district in the suburb of Tullamarine, Victoria. As the second-busiest airport in Australia, it serves as the primary international gateway to Melbourne and the state of Victoria. Its location provides convenient access to Melbourne's city center as well as the surrounding suburbs and regional areas.
Airport Terminal
Melbourne Airport features four terminals, each serving different airlines and flight types:
- Terminal 1: Dedicated to Qantas and Jetstar domestic flights.
- Terminal 2: The international terminal serving all international flights, including those from Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Terminal 3: Used by Virgin Australia for domestic operations.
- Terminal 4: Serves budget airlines including some Jetstar domestic flights and other low-cost carriers.
The terminals are interconnected, making transfers between them relatively straightforward. Terminal 2, which handles international arrivals from Penang, features comprehensive facilities for arriving passengers, including immigration, customs, and baggage claim areas.
Transport From Airport
Melbourne Airport offers various transportation options to reach the city center and other destinations:
- SkyBus: The most popular airport shuttle service, operating 24/7 with departures every 10 minutes during peak hours. It connects the airport with Southern Cross Station in Melbourne's CBD in approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Taxis and Ride-Share: Taxi ranks are located at the front of each terminal, while ride-sharing services like Uber have designated pickup zones. The journey to the CBD typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
- Public Buses: Public Transport Victoria (PTV) operates several bus routes connecting the airport to various suburbs and transport hubs.
- Car Rental: All major car rental companies have counters at Melbourne Airport, located on the ground floor of the at Terminal 2 arrival area.
- Private Transfers: Pre-booked private transfers are available for those preferring door-to-door service.
Facilities
Melbourne Airport provides extensive facilities catering to the diverse needs of travelers:
- Dining and Retail: Each terminal houses numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, duty-free shops, and retail outlets offering everything from luxury goods to local souvenirs.
- Currency Exchange and Banking: Multiple currency exchange counters and ATMs throughout all terminals.
- Free WiFi: Complimentary internet access available throughout the airport.
- Premium Lounges: Several airline lounges in both international and domestic terminals offering premium services and amenities.
- Family Facilities: Parents' rooms, children's play areas, and family-friendly restrooms.
- Prayer Rooms: Multi-faith prayer rooms available for spiritual observance.
- Medical Services: First aid facilities and pharmacy services.
- Baggage Services: Left luggage facilities, baggage wrapping, and lost property services.
- Accessibility Features: The airport provides comprehensive accessibility services including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.
FAQ Penang to Melbourne Flight
Question: How long is the flight from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Since there are no direct flights, the total journey time varies depending on the route and layover duration. Typically, flights with a single stopover range from approximately 11 hours 40 minutes to 30 hours 50 minutes. The shortest connection is usually via Singapore with Scoot airlines.
Question: What airlines offer flights from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Several airlines operate on this route with connections, including Batik Air (via Kuala Lumpur), Scoot (via Singapore), Malaysia Airlines (via Kuala Lumpur), Singapore Airlines (via Singapore), and Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong). Each offers different schedules, amenities, and price points to suit various traveler preferences.
Question: What is the best time to book flights from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: For the best deals, it's advisable to book 3-6 months in advance. Flights tend to be more expensive during peak travel seasons such as December-January (Australian summer) and during major events in Melbourne. Using Traveloka's price alert feature can help you track fare changes and book when prices drop.
Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. Full-service airlines typically offer 23-30kg for checked baggage in economy class, while budget carriers like Scoot may include only 7kg of hand luggage with checked baggage available as an add-on purchase. Always verify the specific allowance when booking your ticket on Traveloka.
Question: Do I need a visa to travel from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Yes, Malaysian citizens require a visa to enter Australia. Most tourists apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or Visitor visa (subclass 600), which can be done online. It's recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute complications.
Question: What is the time difference between Penang and Melbourne?
Answer: Melbourne is 2 hours ahead of Penang for most of the year. However, during the Australian Daylight Saving Time (October to April), Melbourne is 3 hours ahead. This time difference should be considered when planning connections and adjusting to jet lag upon arrival.
Question: Are there any direct flights from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Currently, there are no direct flights operating between Penang and Melbourne. All journeys require at least one stopover, typically in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or other major Asian hubs.
Question: What is the best layover option when flying from Penang to Melbourne?
Answer: Singapore Changi Airport is often considered the best layover option due to its excellent facilities, efficient connections, and amenities for transit passengers. For shorter layovers, Kuala Lumpur International Airport provides convenient connections with Malaysian carriers. For layovers exceeding 6 hours, both airports offer transit tours or hotel options that can make your journey more comfortable.
Other Ways to Travel From Penang to Melbourne
While flying is the most practical option for traveling from Penang to Melbourne due to the vast distance, some adventurous travelers might consider these alternative (though significantly longer) routes:
- Combined Sea and Land Journey
- Route: Ferry from Penang to mainland Malaysia → Train or bus through Malaysia, Thailand, and potentially through multiple Southeast Asian countries → Flights or ships from Indonesia or other Southeast Asian ports to Australia → Domestic transport to Melbourne
- Duration: Several weeks to months depending on stops
- Considerations: This option involves multiple border crossings, various transportation modes, and requires extensive planning and numerous visas. It would be suitable only for those seeking an extended adventure rather than direct travel.
- Luxury Cruise Segments
- Route: Join various cruise segments from Penang or nearby ports that eventually reach Australian waters, then domestic transport to Melbourne
- Duration: Weeks to months depending on cruise itineraries
- Considerations: This option is costly and requires perfect timing to connect different cruise itineraries. It's more of a vacation option than a straightforward travel method.
- Private Yacht Charter
- Route: Sailing from Penang through the Malacca Strait, across the Indonesian archipelago, and across to Australia
- Duration: Several weeks to months
- Considerations: This option is only viable for experienced sailors with access to appropriate vessels and requires navigating complex maritime regulations and obtaining multiple permits.
These alternative options are presented merely for informational purposes. Flying remains the only practical and time-efficient method to travel between Penang and Melbourne for the vast majority of travelers.
Explore Melbourne
Popular Destinations in Melbourne
- Federation Square - The cultural heart of Melbourne, this modern piazza features distinctive architecture and hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year. It's home to several cultural institutions including the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia.
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Spanning 38 hectares, these magnificent gardens showcase more than 8,500 plant species from around the world. The gardens offer tranquil lake views, lush lawns, and diverse plant collections, providing a perfect escape from the urban environment.
- Queen Victoria Market - Operating since 1878, this historic market is a Melbourne institution where you can browse hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, gourmet foods, unique souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. The market comes alive with special night events during summer months.
- Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) - Australia's largest sporting stadium is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. Take a tour of this iconic venue that hosts cricket in summer and Australian Rules Football (AFL) in winter, or better yet, attend a live match to experience the electric atmosphere.
- Great Ocean Road - While technically outside Melbourne proper, this spectacular coastal drive is one of Victoria's most popular day trips. The 243-kilometer route features breathtaking ocean vistas, lush rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles limestone formations.
Popular Cuisine in Melbourne
- Melbourne-style Coffee - The city is renowned for its sophisticated coffee culture, with countless specialty cafes serving meticulously crafted espresso-based drinks. Melbourne baristas are considered among the world's best, making a café visit an essential cultural experience.
- Multicultural Fusion - Melbourne's diverse population has created a vibrant food scene where traditional cuisines blend in innovative ways. Try restaurants that combine Asian flavors with European techniques or modern Australian cuisine that draws inspiration from multiple culinary traditions.
- Laneway Dining - Melbourne's famous laneways host some of the city's most exciting dining establishments, from hole-in-the-wall eateries to sophisticated restaurants hidden behind unmarked doors. These atmospheric venues often showcase creative, chef-driven menus in intimate settings.
- Gourmet Burgers and Food Trucks - The city embraces casual dining with a gourmet twist, particularly evident in its premium burger joints and food truck culture. These offer high-quality ingredients and creative combinations that elevate familiar comfort foods.
- Victorian Wines and Craft Beers - Melbourne provides excellent opportunities to sample wines from nearby Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula regions, along with an ever-growing selection of local craft beers. Many restaurants offer thoughtfully curated wine lists highlighting regional specialties, while microbreweries and beer halls showcase the city's brewing talents.
Book your flight from Penang to Melbourne today with Traveloka and experience the best of both worlds – from Penang's rich cultural heritage to Melbourne's cosmopolitan charm. With competitive prices, regular promotions, and a user-friendly booking platform, Traveloka makes planning your journey between these two vibrant cities simple and stress-free.