Flight From Tawau (TWU) to Penang (PEN)

Complete Guide to Flights from Tawau to Penang

Planning a journey from Tawau to Penang? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flight options, airports, and travel alternatives between these two Malaysian destinations. While there are no direct flights available, several airlines offer convenient connecting flights that make this journey accessible and comfortable.

Direct Flights

No direct flight available between Tawau and Penang. All flights require at least one stopover, typically in Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu.

Layover Flights

• Route: Tawau (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)

  • Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
  • Total Flight Duration: 6h 20m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737
  • Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 2h 30m

• Route: Tawau (Malaysia) → Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)

  • Airlines: AirAsia (also sold by Malaysia Airlines)
  • Total Flight Duration: 4h 40m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737
  • Layovers: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia layover for 1h

• Route: Tawau (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)

  • Airlines: Batik Air
  • Total Flight Duration: 7h 25m
  • Aircraft: Boeing 737
  • Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 2h 15m

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

Flight Schedule Details

For travelers planning their journey from Tawau to Penang, here are some popular flight combinations:

• Batik Air

  • Flight OD1909: Tawau (TWU) 08:05 → Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 11:00 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
  • Flight OD2104: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 13:20 → Penang (PEN) 14:20 (Daily)

• AirAsia

  • Flight AK5745: Tawau (TWU) 09:35 → Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 12:25 (Daily)
  • Flight AK6130: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 18:15 → Penang (PEN) 19:15 (Daily)

• AirAsia Alternative Routes

  • Flight AK5745: Tawau (TWU) 09:35 → Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 12:25 (Daily)
  • Flight AK6138: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 17:30 → Penang (PEN) 18:30 (Daily)

About Tawau Airport - Tawau

Location

Tawau Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers from Tawau city center in Sabah, East Malaysia. The airport serves as an important gateway to the eastern part of Sabah, connecting travelers to other major Malaysian cities and international destinations.

Airport Terminal

Tawau Airport features a modern single-terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal was renovated in recent years to enhance passenger comfort and provide better facilities. Despite its relatively small size compared to major international airports, Tawau Airport efficiently manages passenger traffic with organized check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates.

Transport to Airport

Several transportation options are available to reach Tawau Airport:

• Taxi: The most convenient option, taxis are readily available from Tawau city center to the airport. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• Airport Shuttle: Some hotels in Tawau offer shuttle services to and from the airport for their guests.

• Public Bus: More economical but less convenient, public buses operate between Tawau city and the airport area, though you might need to walk some distance to reach the terminal.

• Private Car: If you're renting a car during your stay in Tawau, the airport has parking facilities available for both short-term and long-term parking.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, Tawau Airport offers essential facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience:

• Food and Beverage: Several cafes and food stalls serving local and international cuisine
• Shopping: Duty-free shops and souvenir stores selling local products
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet throughout the terminal
• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Banking services for last-minute financial needs
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers
• Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating areas throughout the terminal
• Information Counter: Staffed help desk for passenger inquiries
• Medical Services: Basic first aid facilities for emergency situations

About Penang Intl - Penang

Location

Penang Intl (Penang International Airport) is situated in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of Georgetown, the capital city of Penang. As the main airport serving Penang Island and northern Malaysia, it's strategically positioned to connect travelers to this popular tourist destination known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and renowned culinary scene.

Airport Terminal

Penang International Airport features a modern terminal building with separate areas for domestic and international flights. The terminal was extensively renovated and expanded in recent years to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. The architecture blends contemporary design with elements reflecting Penang's rich cultural heritage. The terminal is well-organized with clear signage, making navigation easy for first-time visitors.

Transport From Airport

Getting from Penang International Airport to your destination is convenient with several transportation options:

• Airport Taxis: Available 24/7 at designated taxi counters. Fixed fares apply to different destinations around Penang Island.

• Ride-Hailing Services: Popular ride-hailing apps operate at the airport, offering competitive rates.

• Public Buses: Rapid Penang operates frequent bus services (Route 401, 401E, and 102) connecting the airport to Georgetown and other parts of the island. Bus stops are located right outside the arrival hall.

• Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.

• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels in Penang offer shuttle services for their guests, which can be arranged in advance.

Facilities

Penang International Airport offers comprehensive facilities to ensure a pleasant travel experience:

• Dining Options: A wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls serving local Malaysian delicacies and international cuisine
• Retail Shops: Duty-free outlets, souvenir shops, bookstores, and convenience stores
• Free Wi-Fi: High-speed internet access throughout the terminal
• Currency Exchange and ATMs: Multiple banking services available in both arrival and departure areas
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated facilities for Muslim travelers
• Lounges: Premium lounges offering comfortable seating, refreshments, and business facilities
• Information Counters: Staffed service points providing tourist information and assistance
• Medical Services: First aid facilities and pharmacy
• Baggage Services: Left luggage facilities and baggage wrapping services
• Special Assistance: Services for passengers with reduced mobility or special needs

FAQ Tawau to Penang Flight

• Question: What is the average flight duration from Tawau to Penang?

  Answer: The average flight duration ranges between 4 to 7 hours depending on the layover duration. The fastest connections typically take around 4 hours and 20 minutes with a short stopover in Kota Kinabalu, while longer itineraries with extended layovers in Kuala Lumpur may take up to 7 hours or more.

• Question: How many flights operate between Tawau and Penang daily?

  Answer: There are approximately 13 flight combinations operating daily between Tawau and Penang, all requiring connections through Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu. These flights are operated by AirAsia, Batik Air, and Malaysia Airlines, offering travelers multiple timing options throughout the day.

• Question: What is the best time to book flights from Tawau to Penang for the best rates?

  Answer: It's advisable to book your flights 2-3 weeks in advance to secure the best rates. Being flexible with your travel dates and flight timings can also help you find cheaper options. Booking through Traveloka allows you to compare different date options easily to find the most economical fare.

• Question: Which airlines operate flights between Tawau and Penang?

  Answer: The main airlines operating on this route are AirAsia, Batik Air (formerly Malindo Air), and Malaysia Airlines. Each airline offers different connection options, primarily through their hubs in Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu.

• Question: Are there any upcoming new flight routes between Tawau and Penang?

  Answer: While there are no announced direct flights between Tawau and Penang as of May 2025, airlines regularly update their routes. Batik Air has been expanding its network with new routes launching in July 2025, so it's worth checking Traveloka regularly for the latest flight options.

• Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Tawau to Penang?

  Answer: Baggage allowance varies by airline and fare type. Generally, full-service carriers like Malaysia Airlines offer 20-30kg checked baggage allowance in economy class. AirAsia's basic fares may not include checked baggage, requiring an additional purchase. Premium cabins typically offer increased allowances. Always verify the specific allowance when booking through Traveloka.

• Question: How early should I arrive at Tawau Airport for my flight to Penang?

  Answer: For domestic connections within Malaysia, it's recommended to arrive at Tawau Airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security procedures, and reaching your gate, especially considering that all flights to Penang require connections.

• Question: What happens if my connecting flight to Penang is delayed or canceled?

  Answer: If you book your entire journey as a single ticket through Traveloka, the airline is responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight in case of delays or cancellations that cause you to miss your connection. It's always advisable to book connecting flights on a single ticket rather than separate bookings for this protection.

Other Ways to Travel From Tawau to Penang

While flying is the most practical option for traveling from Tawau to Penang due to the geographical separation (Tawau is in East Malaysia on Borneo, while Penang is in Peninsular Malaysia), there are alternative routes for those seeking a more adventurous journey:

• Combined Sea and Land Journey

  • Route: Tawau → Kota Kinabalu (by domestic flight) → Labuan → Brunei → Miri → Kuching (by ferry/bus) → Kuala Lumpur (by flight) → Penang (by train/bus)
  • Duration: Approximately 3-5 days depending on connections
  • Experience: This multi-modal journey allows you to experience the diverse landscapes of both East and West Malaysia, including coastal scenery and the unique culture of different Malaysian states.

• Fly to Alor Setar and Take Land Transportation

  • Route: Tawau → Alor Setar (by flight with connections) → Penang (by tram/train/bus)
  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours total
  • Experience: This option allows you to experience the scenic journey across the Penang Bridge, one of the longest bridges in Southeast Asia.

• Fly to Kuala Lumpur and Take Express Bus/Train

  • Route: Tawau → Kuala Lumpur (by direct flight) → Penang (by express bus or ETS train)
  • Duration: Flight (2.5-3 hours) + Land journey (4-5 hours)
  • Experience: The Electric Train Service (ETS) from KL to Penang offers comfortable seating and scenic views of the Malaysian countryside.

Explore Penang

Popular Destinations in Penang

• Georgetown UNESCO World Heritage Site

  The historic center of Penang, Georgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial buildings, traditional shophouses, and diverse cultural influences. Don't miss the famous street art, historic clan jetties, and beautiful temples like Kek Lok Si and Khoo Kongsi.

• Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)

  Take the funicular railway to the top of Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island and mainland. At 833 meters above sea level, the hill offers cooler temperatures, colonial-era bungalows, and attractions like The Habitat Penang Hill, a world-class rainforest discovery center.

• Batu Ferringhi Beach

  This popular beach destination features a long stretch of white sand, water sports activities, and a vibrant night market. The area is home to many luxury resorts and beachfront dining options, making it perfect for relaxation and leisure.

• Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

  One of the world's largest butterfly and insect gardens, Entopia offers an immersive natural experience with thousands of free-flying butterflies, interactive exhibits, and educational displays about the fascinating world of invertebrates.

• Tropical Spice Garden

  Located in Teluk Bahang, this living museum showcases over 500 varieties of tropical herbs and spices in a beautiful rainforest setting. Guided tours, cooking classes, and a gift shop selling authentic spice products make this a must-visit for nature and culinary enthusiasts.

Popular Cuisine in Penang

• Penang Char Koay Teow

  This iconic stir-fried flat rice noodle dish is prepared with prawns, cockles, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), bean sprouts, chives, and egg, all wok-fried in pork lard that gives it a distinctive smoky aroma. The best versions are found at street stalls throughout Georgetown.

• Assam Laksa

  Penang's signature laksa features a sour, spicy fish-based broth made with tamarind (assam) and mackerel, topped with mint, pineapple, cucumber, onion, lettuce, and a dollop of pungent shrimp paste (hae ko). It's consistently ranked among the world's most delicious foods.

• Nasi Kandar

  A Malaysian Indian Muslim dish consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. Diners choose their preferred combination of meat, seafood, and vegetable curries, with the rice typically "flooded" (banjir) with curry sauce. Line Clear and Nasi Kandar Beratur are famous spots to try this dish.

• Hokkien Mee (Prawn Noodle Soup)

  This comforting noodle soup features a rich, spicy broth made from prawn heads and shells, pork bones, and a blend of spices. Served with yellow noodles and rice vermicelli, prawns, pork slices, hard-boiled eggs, and crispy fried shallots.

• Cendol

  The perfect dessert to cool down in Penang's tropical heat, cendol consists of shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green rice flour jelly. Penang's famous Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul often has long queues of locals and tourists waiting to sample this refreshing treat.

Begin your journey from Tawau Airport to Penang Intl by booking with Traveloka for the best flight deals and a seamless travel experience. With comprehensive flight options and user-friendly booking features, Traveloka ensures your travel planning is hassle-free and enjoyable.