A coastal city with a marina, buildings, and a well-maintained park.

$98 Cheap Flights to Sandakan

View $98 flight on Sat, Jun 26, 2027Opens in a new window

Popular airlines to Sandakan

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

How much is the cheapest flight to Sandakan?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $98 for one-way flights and $196 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Malaysia Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Philippine Airlines
Xiamen Airlines
Sichuan Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Sandakan

Flights to Sandakan at a glance

Traveling to Sandakan is easy; you can choose from a range of airlines, including both full-service and budget options. Compare flight durations and select the best choice that aligns with your budget and schedule, making it convenient to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport in Sandakan: Sandakan Airport (SDK)
  • Flights per week: 21 flights arriving at Sandakan airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Sandakan: around 3 carriers

Popular airport in Sandakan

Sandakan is a vibrant city that caters to family getaways, outdoor adventures, and business trips. Visitors are drawn to its eco-friendly attractions, stunning beaches, and thrilling activities. The city is conveniently served by Sandakan Airport, making it easy to access all that this destination has to offer.

  • Sandakan Airport (SDK): Situated in the Sandakan District of Sabah, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, linking approximately 2 domestic cities and a single international destination. Key airlines operating at this location include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air.

Top routes to Sandakan

  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK), with one-way flight options from around $45
  • Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Sandakan (SDK), with one-way airfare from around $20
  • Singapore (SIN) to Sandakan (SDK), with one-way airfare from around $130

Cheapest routes to Sandakan

  • Kota Kinabalu (BKI) to Sandakan (SDK), with cheap one-way fares from around $20
  • Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK), with low one-way fares from around $45
  • Singapore (SIN) to Sandakan (SDK), with affordable one-way prices from around $130

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Sandakan

  • AirAsia: Operating flights to Sandakan Airport (SDK), AirAsia represents about 51% of the total arrivals in Sandakan. The average fare for a one-way ticket is roughly $80.
  • Malaysia Airlines: This airline also serves Sandakan Airport (SDK) and is responsible for approximately 40% of arrivals. Travelers can expect one-way fares to be around $180.
  • Malindo Air: Providing service to Sandakan Airport (SDK), Malindo Air accounts for nearly 9% of the arrivals. The average price for a one-way flight is about $50.

How to save money on a flight to Sandakan

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Sandakan is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Sandakan hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Sandakan flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Sandakan

Sandakan welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sandakan efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Sandakan Airport, Sandakan Seaport, a seaport, is located about 5.8 miles from the airport.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sandakan, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Sandakan is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Sandakan on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

  • Kampung Bilit: Located 24 miles drive away from Sandakan, Kampung Bilit is a charming village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a beach getaway. The area features a campground and is surrounded by stunning landmarks such as the Gomantong Caves, ideal for those seeking adventure, and Bukit Batangan, a peak that offers breathtaking scenery. History buffs can explore Batu Tulug, a museum that delves into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the serene environment.
  • Sepilok: Situated in the area of Sandakan, Sepilok is a vibrant village that attracts travelers eager for outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. You can unwind at local spas or explore the nearby shopping mall center. Notable attractions include the Rainforest Discovery Centre, a nature reserve that showcases the region’s biodiversity, and the Sandakan Memorial Park, which provides a glimpse into the area's historical significance. For beach lovers, Pulau Kabili offers a delightful escape to sun-kissed shores. This destination is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.
  • Kampung Dandulit: Kampung Dandulit is located in the area of Sandakan and is a treasure trove for culture enthusiasts. Here, visitors can explore historic places and houses that tell the story of the village's rich heritage. Key attractions include the Rainforest Discovery Centre, which serves as a preserve for the local flora and fauna, and the Sandakan Memorial Park, a significant site for remembering the past. The urban park also offers family-friendly outdoor spaces, making it a great spot for a leisurely day out. Discover the authentic cultural essence of this charming village during your visit.

Tips for short-haul flights to Sandakan

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and efficiently planning your outfits. This strategy also allows you to avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Sandakan

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, which is usually 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you find yourself with extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight in accordance with the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Sandakan?
March is the cheapest month to fly to Sandakan. Demand is lower then, so fares are usually more affordable. Booking your trip outside of school breaks and major holidays can also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to Sandakan?
Nonstop flights to Sandakan take off from US cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. When planning your trip, just choose the "Direct flights only" filter to search for routes that fly to Sandakan without layovers.
How to find a cheap flight to Sandakan?
Book your trip early to increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Sandakan. Also, consider traveling during off-season months like June and November. If you jet off on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to those departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and create a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll send you a notification when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Sandakan?
Although booking in advance is generally the best way to save cash, don't worry if your Sandakan getaway is last minute. You can still get cheap flights to Sandakan, especially if your plans have some flexibility. Try changing your dates, exploring different ticket types or departing from another airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Sandakan?
Lock in your flight to Sandakan two to four months ahead if you're taking off from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Cheaper fares and a wider variety of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just some of the advantages of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Sandakan?
You'll save an average of 8% if you buy tickets on a Sunday rather than Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to scoring a cheap flight to Sandakan, the key is good timing.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Sandakan?
There are 3 airlines offering routes that connect Sandakan with 4 airports around the globe. The primary entry point to Sandakan is Sandakan Airport (SDK). AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines are two major airlines to Sandakan.
Where do you fly into Sandakan?
Sandakan Airport (SDK) is the main airport for travelers flying to Sandakan. Or you can land at Lahad Datu Airport (LDU). Compare fares between the two airports to find the easiest or cheapest way to fly to Sandakan.
How far is the airport from central Sandakan?
You'll be about 6 mi northwest of the center of Sandakan after arriving at Sandakan Airport (SDK).
Can I save money by booking a Sandakan trip package?
Book a Sandakan flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you could enjoy significant savings. It's easy to bundle your flights and accommodations, and you can add activities and car rentals to create your own customized Sandakan getaway. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Sandakan?
It's usually possible to change or cancel your flight to Sandakan. Many airlines let you cancel your ticket for free within 24 hours of booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you credit for a future flight rather than a direct refund. To find cheap flights to Sandakan with flexible change policies, pick "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" during your search. Looking for more information? Head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Sandakan

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Sandakan on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

March is the cheapest month to fly to Sandakan. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Sandakan. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Sandakan, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Sandakan

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Sandakan in 2026 starts from from $196, while one-way tickets start from from $98. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Sandakan. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Sandakan

Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Etihad Airways, Xiamen Airlines are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Sandakan. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Sandakan and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Sandakan, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Sandakan. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Sandakan plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Sandakan

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Sandakan.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Sandakan are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Sandakan. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Sandakan for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Sandakan. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Sandakan flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Sandakan. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Sandakan

Travel information

Destination airport
Sandakan
Destination airport IATA code
SDK
Destination city name
Sandakan
Roundtrip price
$195

Trending flights to Sandakan

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $98 for one-way flights and $196 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Etihad Airways

Explore a world of travel with Expedia