Flight Ticket and Schedule From Hat Yai (HDY) to Penang (PEN)

Comprehensive Guide to Hat Yai to Penang Flights

Traveling from Hat Yai, Thailand to Penang, Malaysia offers a unique opportunity to explore two vibrant destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this comprehensive guide provides all the essential information you need about flights between Hat Yai International Airport and Penang International Airport. From flight options and airport details to travel alternatives and exploration opportunities, we've got you covered for a seamless journey between these two fascinating cities.

Direct Flights

No direct flights are currently available between Hat Yai and Penang. Travelers must take connecting flights with layovers to reach their destination.

Layover Flights

• Route: Hat Yai (Thailand) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)

  Airlines: Batik Air

  Total Flight Duration: 3h 20m

  Aircraft: Boeing 737

  Layovers: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1h 5m

• Route: Hat Yai (Thailand) → Bangkok (Thailand) → Penang (Malaysia)

  Airlines: THAI

  Total Flight Duration: 6h 30m

  Aircraft: Airbus A320

  Layovers: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand layover for 3h 5m

• Route: Hat Yai (Thailand) → Bangkok (Thailand) → Penang (Malaysia)

  Airlines: THAI

  Total Flight Duration: 24h 30m

  Aircraft: Airbus A320

  Layovers: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand layover for 21h 5m (overnight)

These layover flights offer varying durations and connection points, allowing travelers to choose according to their schedule preferences and budget considerations.

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

About Hat Yai International Airport - Hat Yai

Location

Hat Yai International Airport is located approximately 9 kilometers from Hat Yai city center in Thailand's Songkhla Province. The airport serves as an important gateway to southern Thailand and provides connections to various domestic and international destinations. Situated in the Ban Phru subdistrict, the airport is easily accessible from downtown Hat Yai via several transportation options.

Airport Terminal

Hat Yai International Airport features a modern terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The compact terminal is well-designed for passenger comfort, with clear signage in multiple languages including Thai, English, and Chinese. The international section of the terminal handles flights to neighboring countries, including connections to Malaysia. The terminal operates efficiently, with streamlined immigration and customs procedures for international travelers.

Transport to Airport

• Airport Minibus: Regular minibus services operate between Hat Yai city center and the airport, with affordable fares and frequent departures.

• Taxi: Metered taxis are readily available throughout Hat Yai and offer a convenient door-to-door service to the airport. The journey typically takes 15-20 minutes from the city center.

• Songthaew: These modified pickup trucks serve as shared taxis in Hat Yai and can transport passengers to the airport at budget-friendly rates.

• Private Car: Car rental services are available in Hat Yai, offering flexibility for travelers who prefer to drive themselves to the airport.

• Hotel Shuttle: Many hotels in Hat Yai provide airport shuttle services for their guests, either complimentary or for a nominal fee.

Facilities

• Dining Options: Several restaurants and cafes serving Thai and international cuisine

• Retail Shops: Duty-free stores selling perfumes, liquor, and souvenirs

• Currency Exchange: Multiple currency exchange counters with competitive rates

• ATMs: Several banking machines located throughout the terminal

• Information Counters: Staffed desks providing assistance to travelers

• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access throughout the terminal

• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for religious observance

• First Aid Station: Medical assistance for emergency situations

• Car Rental Services: Multiple providers offering vehicle rental options

• Left Luggage: Storage facilities for temporary baggage safekeeping

About Penang Intl - Penang

Location

Penang Intl is located in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital city of Penang state in Malaysia. As the main airport serving the island of Penang, it functions as a vital gateway to this popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and renowned cuisine. The airport's strategic location makes it accessible from all parts of Penang Island.

Airport Terminal

Penang International Airport features a modern terminal building that efficiently handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal underwent significant renovations in recent years to enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency. The international arrival and departure areas are well-designed with clear signage in multiple languages including Malay, English, Chinese, and Tamil. The terminal is equipped with aerobridges for convenient boarding and disembarkation, and features separate zones for domestic and international operations.

Transport From Airport

• Airport Shuttle Bus: Regular shuttle services connect the airport to major hotels and tourist areas in George Town and other parts of Penang.

• Public Bus: Rapid Penang operates several bus routes connecting the airport to various destinations across the island, offering affordable transportation for budget travelers.

• Taxi: A taxi counter inside the arrival hall provides fixed-rate taxi services to destinations throughout Penang. The journey to George Town typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

• E-hailing Services: Ride-sharing services are widely available and can be arranged through smartphone apps.

• Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport, allowing travelers to explore Penang at their own pace.

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

Facilities

• Food and Beverage Outlets: Numerous restaurants, cafes, and food stalls serving local Malaysian cuisine and international options

• Shopping: Retail shops selling local products, souvenirs, books, fashion items, and duty-free goods

• Currency Exchange: Multiple counters offering foreign exchange services

• ATMs: Banking machines conveniently located throughout the terminal

• Free Wi-Fi: Wireless internet access throughout the airport

• Lounges: Premium lounges for business class travelers and eligible cardholders

• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for Muslim prayers

• Medical Services: First aid facilities for emergency situations

• Information Counters: Staffed desks providing tourist information and assistance

• Left Luggage: Storage services for temporary baggage safekeeping

• Baby Care Rooms: Private spaces for parents traveling with infants

• Disabled Facilities: Wheelchair services and accessible amenities for passengers with reduced mobility

FAQ Hat Yai to Penang Flight

• Question: What is the flight distance between Hat Yai and Penang?

  Answer: The direct flight distance between Hat Yai and Penang is approximately 114 miles (183 kilometers). However, since there are no direct flights, the actual flying distance will be longer depending on your layover location.

• Question: How long does the journey take from Hat Yai to Penang by air?

  Answer: Since there are no direct flights, the total journey time varies based on the connection. The quickest layover option via Kuala Lumpur takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, while other routes through Bangkok can take between 6.5 hours to 24.5 hours depending on the layover duration.

• Question: What is the best time to book flights from Hat Yai to Penang for the lowest fares?

  Answer: For the best fares, it's recommended to book your flights at least 2-3 months in advance. Prices tend to be lower during mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) compared to weekends. Also, traveling during off-peak seasons (avoiding major holidays and festivals) can result in more affordable fares.

• Question: Which airlines operate flights on the Hat Yai to Penang route?

  Answer: Multiple airlines offer connecting flights between Hat Yai and Penang, including Batik Air, Thai AirAsia, and THAI. Each airline offers different connection points, primarily through Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok.

• Question: Is there a baggage allowance for flights from Hat Yai to Penang?

  Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare type. Typically, economy class passengers are allowed 20-30kg of checked baggage and 7kg of hand luggage. Premium economy and business class passengers usually enjoy higher allowances. It's advisable to check specific allowances with your airline or through Traveloka when booking.

• Question: Are there any visa requirements for traveling from Hat Yai (Thailand) to Penang (Malaysia)?

  Answer: Most nationalities require a valid visa or visa exemption to enter Malaysia from Thailand. However, many countries have visa exemption agreements with Malaysia, allowing stays of 14-90 days depending on nationality. Always check the current visa requirements based on your citizenship before traveling.

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

  Answer: If you've booked your entire journey on a single ticket, the airline is responsible for rearranging your connection if a delay or cancellation occurs. If you've booked separate tickets for each leg of the journey, you may need to make alternative arrangements yourself, potentially at additional cost. Travel insurance is recommended to cover such contingencies.

• Question: Can I pre-book seats for flights from Hat Yai to Penang?

  Answer: Yes, most airlines allow seat selection during the booking process or after booking through the manage booking section. Some airlines offer this service free of charge, while others may charge a fee, especially for premium seats with extra legroom. Booking through Traveloka allows you to select seats based on the airline's policies.

Other Ways to Travel From Hat Yai to Penang

While flying offers the quickest connection between Hat Yai and Penang, several alternative transportation options are available for travelers who prefer overland journeys or are looking for more budget-friendly alternatives:

Bus Service:

• Direct international buses operate between Hat Yai and Penang
• Journey time: Approximately 4 hours (depending on border crossing efficiency)
• Multiple daily departures from Hat Yai Bus Terminal to Komtar Bus Terminal in George Town, Penang
• Comfortable air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats
• Border crossing at Dannok (Thailand) / Bukit Kayu Hitam (Malaysia) with immigration procedures

Train and Ferry Combination:

• Train from Hat Yai to Padang Besar (Thai-Malaysian border)
• Journey time: About 1 hour
• Transfer to Malaysian train service to Butterworth
• Journey time: Approximately 1.5 hours
• Ferry from Butterworth to Georgetown, Penang
• Journey time: About 15 minutes
• Total journey time: Approximately 3 hours plus connection waiting times

Private Car or Taxi:

• Door-to-door service available from Hat Yai to Penang
• Journey time: About 2.5-3 hours (excluding border crossing time)
• Convenient but more expensive than public transportation options
• Driver will assist with border crossing procedures
• Flexibility to stop along the route for sightseeing or refreshments

Self-Drive Option:

• Rent a car in Hat Yai (international driving permit required)
• Return the car at the border and rent another in Malaysia, or
• Arrange special permission for cross-border car rental (requires advance planning)
• Journey time: Approximately 2.5-3 hours of driving (excluding border crossing time)
• Offers maximum flexibility for exploring both regions

Each transportation option offers different advantages in terms of cost, comfort, flexibility, and travel experience. The bus service provides the most straightforward and cost-effective option for most travelers, while the train and ferry combination offers a more scenic and varied journey experience.

Explore Penang

Popular Destinations in Penang

• Georgetown Historic Center
  A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful shophouses, and a vibrant mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultural influences. Must-visit attractions include the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion), Khoo Kongsi clan house, and Fort Cornwallis. The area is also famous for its street art, particularly the murals created by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic.

• Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
  Offering panoramic views of the island from 833 meters above sea level, Penang Hill is accessible via a funicular railway. Visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures, colonial bungalows, lush gardens, and various viewing platforms. The hill also features The Habitat Penang Hill, an eco-tourism facility with canopy walks and nature trails.

• Kek Lok Si Temple
  As one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, Kek Lok Si is an impressive complex featuring ornate architecture, beautiful gardens, and a towering seven-story pagoda that combines Chinese, Thai, and Burmese designs. The 36.5-meter bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, is a highlight of this magnificent temple.

• Batu Ferringhi Beach
  A popular stretch of white sandy beach on the northern coast of Penang, Batu Ferringhi offers water sports activities, beachfront dining, and a vibrant night market. The area is home to many luxury resorts and provides a perfect setting for relaxation and coastal enjoyment.

• Penang National Park
  Despite being the world's smallest national park, this natural treasure offers hiking trails leading to pristine beaches like Monkey Beach and Turtle Beach. The park features a canopy walkway, meromictic lake (where freshwater and seawater don't mix), and diverse wildlife including dusky leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, and various bird species.

Popular Cuisine in Penang

• Char Koay Teow
  This iconic Penang dish consists of flat rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, and chives in a mix of soy sauce and chili. The authentic version is cooked over high heat in a well-seasoned wok, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor known as "wok hei" (breath of the wok).

• Assam Laksa
  Penang's signature laksa variant features thick rice noodles in a sour fish broth made with tamarind, mackerel, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Topped with cucumber, pineapple, onion, mint, and a dollop of shrimp paste, this tangy and spicy soup offers a complex flavor profile that earned it a place on CNN's list of the world's 50 best foods.

• Nasi Kandar
  A Malaysian Indian Muslim dish consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes. Diners can choose from options like fried chicken, fish, squid, or beef, accompanied by vegetables and eggs. The distinctive feature is the mixture of curry sauces poured over the rice, creating a flavorful combination known as "banjir" (flood).

• Hokkien Mee (Prawn Noodle Soup)
  A rich prawn broth simmered with pork bones and spices, served with egg noodles and rice vermicelli. Typical toppings include prawns, sliced pork, hard-boiled eggs, bean sprouts, and crispy fried shallots. The soup derives its distinctive reddish color and depth of flavor from prawn heads and shells.

• Cendol
  A refreshing dessert perfect for Penang's tropical climate, featuring green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and shaved ice. Penang's version often includes red beans, creamed corn, and a scoop of durian for those who appreciate the pungent "king of fruits." It's the ideal sweet treat to cool down after sampling Penang's spicy street food offerings.

Penang's cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage, with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Nyonya influences creating one of the world's most celebrated food scenes. The island is renowned as a food paradise, where the best culinary experiences are often found at modest roadside stalls and hawker centers rather than formal restaurants.

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