Kota Kinabalu to Subang: Your Complete Flight Guide
Planning a trip from the stunning coastal city of Kota Kinabalu to Subang in Malaysia? This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two vibrant Malaysian destinations. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, understanding your flight options, airport details, and travel alternatives will help ensure a smooth journey from Sabah to peninsular Malaysia.
Direct Flights
- Airline: Firefly Average Flight Duration: 2h 45m Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
- Airline: Batik Air Average Flight Duration: 2h 35m Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
- Airline: Batik Air Average Flight Duration: 2h 30m Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
Layover Flights
Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia) → Subang (Malaysia)
Airlines: Firefly
Total Flight Duration: 6h 45m
Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 72
Layovers:
- Penang International Airport (PEN), Penang, Malaysia layover for 2h 55m
Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia) → Subang (Malaysia)
Airlines: Batik Air
Total Flight Duration: 18h 10m
Aircraft: Boeing 737
Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 2h 30m
- Penang International Airport (PEN), Penang, Malaysia layover for 11h 10m (overnight)
Route: Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Sultan Abdul Halim (Malaysia) → Subang (Malaysia)
Airlines: Malaysia Airlines, Firefly
Total Flight Duration: 17h 45m
Aircraft: Boeing 737, ATR 72
Layovers:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 12h 5m (overnight)
- Sultan Abdul Halim Airport (AOR), Alor Setar, Malaysia layover for 50m
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Kota Kinabalu International Airport - Kota Kinabalu
Location
Kota Kinabalu International Airport is located approximately 7 kilometers southwest of the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. As the second busiest airport in Malaysia, it serves as the main gateway to the state of Sabah and the beautiful island of Borneo. The airport is situated along Jalan Kepayan, offering stunning views of the South China Sea during takeoff and landing.
Airport Terminal
Kota Kinabalu International Airport consists of two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is the primary terminal handling both domestic and international flights, while Terminal 2 primarily serves budget carriers. The terminals are modern and well-equipped, designed to handle the increasing number of tourists visiting Sabah. Terminal 1 underwent significant renovation in 2008, expanding its capacity to accommodate up to 9 million passengers annually.
Transport to Airport
Getting to Kota Kinabalu International Airport is convenient with several transportation options available:
- Taxi: The most direct way to reach the airport, taxis are readily available throughout the city. The journey from the city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Airport Bus: Budget-friendly airport shuttle buses operate regularly between the city center and the airport, with stops at major hotels and the central bus terminal.
- Ride-hailing Services: Apps like Grab provide convenient door-to-door service at competitive rates.
- Car Rental: For those who prefer self-driving, various car rental agencies operate at the airport and throughout the city.
Facilities
Kota Kinabalu International Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience:
- Dining Options: Multiple restaurants and cafes serving local Malaysian cuisine and international favorites
- Shopping: Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, and retail outlets offering local products and international brands
- Currency Exchange: Several money changers and ATMs for convenient currency conversion
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet throughout the terminals
- Lounges: Premium lounges for business class passengers and eligible frequent flyers
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers
- Medical Services: First aid and medical assistance available for emergencies
- Baggage Services: Left luggage facilities and baggage wrapping services
About Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport - Kuala Lumpur / Subang
Location
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport (commonly known as Subang Airport) is located in Subang, approximately 23 kilometers west of Kuala Lumpur city center. Originally the main international gateway to Malaysia before the opening of KLIA, Subang Airport now primarily serves domestic flights and short-haul regional routes. Its proximity to the city makes it a convenient alternative for travelers heading to Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas.
Airport Terminal
Subang Airport features a single, well-maintained terminal building that has been modernized in recent years. The compact size of the terminal means shorter walking distances and quicker processes for check-in, security, and baggage claim. The terminal is designed with efficiency in mind, allowing passengers to move through the airport with minimal hassle. Despite its smaller size compared to KLIA, the terminal offers all essential services for a comfortable travel experience.
Transport From Airport
Getting from Subang Airport to Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas is straightforward with several transportation options:
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the arrival hall and provide direct service to your destination. The journey to Kuala Lumpur city center takes approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
- Ride-hailing Services: Grab and other ride-hailing apps offer convenient and often more affordable alternatives to traditional taxis.
- Bus: Public buses connect the airport to various parts of Kuala Lumpur, including KL Sentral, the city's main transportation hub.
- Train: The nearest KTM Komuter station (Subang Jaya) is accessible via a short taxi ride, connecting passengers to the broader rail network of Kuala Lumpur.
- Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves.
Facilities
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport offers a variety of facilities to enhance the passenger experience:
- Food and Beverage: Several cafes, restaurants, and food kiosks offering local and international cuisine
- Retail Shops: Convenience stores and boutiques selling travel essentials, souvenirs, and local products
- Banking Services: ATMs and currency exchange counters available within the terminal
- Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access throughout the terminal
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated spaces for Muslim travelers
- Lounges: Premium lounge facilities for eligible passengers
- Information Counter: Staffed service desk providing assistance to travelers
- Car Rental: On-site car rental services for convenient transportation options
FAQ Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur / Subang Flight
- Question: How long is the flight from Kota Kinabalu to Subang? Answer: Direct flights from Kota Kinabalu to Subang typically take between 2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on the airline and specific flight conditions.
- Question: Which airlines operate direct flights between Kota Kinabalu and Subang? Answer: Firefly and Batik Air are the main carriers operating direct flights between Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang.
- Question: How frequently do flights operate between Kota Kinabalu and Subang? Answer: There are multiple weekly flights connecting these destinations, with schedules varying by day of the week. Firefly offers several weekly services between the two cities.
- Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Kota Kinabalu to Subang? Answer: Baggage allowance varies by airline and fare class. Typically, economy passengers are allowed 20kg of checked baggage on Batik Air and 15-20kg on Firefly. Always verify the specific allowance with your booking details on Traveloka.
- Question: When should I arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport for my flight to Subang? Answer: It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flight departures to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and boarding procedures.
- Question: Can I find late-night flights from Kota Kinabalu to Subang? Answer: Flight schedules vary, but there are some evening departures available. The latest direct flight typically departs around 21:10. Check Traveloka for the most current schedule information.
- Question: What's the best time to book flights from Kota Kinabalu to Subang for the best rates? Answer: Generally, booking 1-3 months in advance often secures better rates. Mid-week flights (Tuesday to Thursday) typically offer lower fares than weekend flights. Using Traveloka's price alert feature can help you track fare changes.
- Question: Is there a time difference between Kota Kinabalu and Subang? Answer: No, both Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur/Subang operate in the same time zone (UTC+8), so there's no time adjustment needed when traveling between these destinations.
Other Ways to Travel From Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur / Subang
While flying is the most practical option for traveling between Kota Kinabalu and Subang due to the geographical separation (Kota Kinabalu is located in East Malaysia on Borneo island, while Subang is in peninsular Malaysia), there are alternative travel combinations for those seeking something different:
Ferry and Bus/Train Combination Route: Kota Kinabalu → Labuan → Brunei → Miri → Kuching → Ferry to peninsular Malaysia → Bus/Train to Kuala Lumpur Duration: Approximately 3-5 days This lengthy journey involves multiple transfers and modes of transportation, making it suitable only for adventurous travelers with ample time.
Cruise Ships Occasionally, cruise ships operating in Southeast Asia include both Kota Kinabalu and Port Klang (near Kuala Lumpur) in their itineraries Duration: Varies (typically part of a 7-14 day cruise) This option is more of a vacation experience rather than direct transportation.
Private Yacht Charter For luxury travelers, private yacht charters can be arranged to sail from Kota Kinabalu to peninsular Malaysia Duration: Several days depending on stops and sea conditions This exclusive option comes with a premium price tag.
Combination Flight with Extended Layover Flying to a connecting city like Singapore or Jakarta with an intentional extended stopover before continuing to Kuala Lumpur Duration: Varies (1-3 days depending on chosen layover length) This option allows you to visit an additional city during your journey.
Explore Kuala Lumpur / Subang
Popular Destinations in Kuala Lumpur / Subang
- Sunway Lagoon Theme Park Located in Subang Jaya, this world-class theme park features over 90 attractions spread across six different zones including Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park, and Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. It's perfect for a day of family fun with thrilling rides, water slides, and wildlife encounters.
- The Curve Shopping Mall This open-air lifestyle shopping mall offers a relaxed shopping experience with a wide range of retail outlets, dining options, and entertainment facilities. The mall's unique architecture and landscaped walkways create a pleasant atmosphere for shoppers.
- Shah Alam Blue Mosque (Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Mosque) Just a short drive from Subang, this magnificent blue-domed mosque is the largest in Malaysia and the second largest in Southeast Asia. Its stunning architecture, featuring four towering minarets and a massive prayer hall, makes it a must-visit cultural landmark.
- Empire Shopping Gallery Located in the heart of Subang Jaya, this modern shopping complex offers a mix of international and local brands, diverse dining options, and entertainment facilities. The mall is connected to Empire Hotel, making it convenient for visitors staying nearby.
- Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) Nature enthusiasts will appreciate this vast forest reserve located near Kepong, offering a refreshing escape from the urban environment. Visitors can enjoy jungle trekking, canopy walks, and learn about Malaysia's rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Popular Cuisine in Kuala Lumpur / Subang
- Nasi Lemak Malaysia's national dish consists of fragrant coconut rice served with sambal (spicy sauce), fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, cucumber slices, and a boiled egg. In Subang and Kuala Lumpur, you'll find numerous variations, from simple roadside packets to elaborate restaurant versions with fried chicken, beef rendang, or seafood.
- Subang Chili Pan Mee A local favorite, this dish features hand-pulled noodles served with minced pork, crispy anchovies, and a runny poached egg, topped with fiery chili flakes. SS15 in Subang Jaya is particularly famous for this dish, with several competing restaurants claiming to serve the best version.
- Banana Leaf Rice This South Indian-influenced meal consists of white rice served on a banana leaf with an assortment of vegetables, curries, and papadam (crispy lentil wafer). Traditionally eaten by hand, this communal dining experience is popular throughout the Klang Valley, with several renowned establishments in Subang and surrounding areas.
- Char Kway Teow This stir-fried flat rice noodle dish prepared with prawns, cockles, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, chives, and egg is a hawker food favorite. The Subang area has numerous food courts and hawker centers serving authentic versions of this beloved Malaysian dish.
- Durian Creations For the adventurous, the Subang and Kuala Lumpur areas offer innovative desserts featuring the infamous "king of fruits." From durian cendol to durian-filled pastries and ice cream, these sweet treats showcase Malaysia's most distinctive and polarizing fruit in creative ways.
Discover the best of Malaysia with direct flights from Kota Kinabalu International Airport to Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport. Book your journey with Traveloka today for the best rates and a seamless travel experience that connects East Malaysia's tropical paradise to the vibrant metropolitan region of Kuala Lumpur and Subang.