Flights to Sabah at a glance

Traveling to Sabah is straightforward; you can easily search for flights to Sabah, choosing between full-service and budget airlines to find the best airfare to Sabah that fits your plans. Consider the journey times and select an option that aligns with your budget and schedule to explore the region's renowned attractions. Highlights include Mount Kinabalu National Park, perfect for adventure and stunning scenery, along with the iconic Mt. Kinabalu and the Mount Kinabalu Park Entrance, ideal for family outings and outdoor experiences.

• Major airports in Sabah: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) serving Kota Kinabalu; Sandakan Airport (SDK) serving Sandakan; Tawau Airport (TWU) serving Tawau
• Flights per week: 95+ flights arriving across Sabah airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Sabah: around 10+ carriers

Popular airports in Sabah

Sabah is a vibrant state perfect for outdoor activities, adventure, and family vacations. Its stunning beaches, rich culture, and variety of experiences attract travelers from all over. The region is conveniently served by three major airports, making access easy for visitors.

• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI): Situated in the Kota Kinabalu District within Penampang, part of the Pantai Barat Division in Sabah, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights. It connects passengers to approximately 3 domestic cities and 7 international locales, with options to upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on airlines and routes. Major carriers include Malaysia Airlines, Scoot, and AirAsia.
• Sandakan Airport (SDK): Found in the Sandakan District of Sabah, this airport operates both domestic and international flights, linking around 2 domestic cities with 1 international destination. Travelers can choose from a selection of airlines such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air that service this airport.
• Tawau Airport (TWU): Located in Tawau District, Sabah, this airport is dedicated to domestic travel. It features services from notable airlines including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air, catering to local travelers seeking convenient air transport options.

Top routes to Sabah

• Singapore (SIN) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with one-way tickets available from around $55
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with one-way tickets available from around $30
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK), with one-way fares starting at around $45
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Tawau (TWU), with one-way fares starting at around $40
• Manila (MNL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with one-way airfare from around $40

Cheapest routes to Sabah

• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Tawau (TWU), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
• Manila (MNL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Sandakan (SDK), with affordable one-way prices from around $45
• Subang (SZB) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with low one-way fares from around $45

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

Best time to fly to Sabah

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Sabah are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Sabah can reach up to 78.1°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 80.6°F. For better deals, March usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $141, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October offers an average one-way fare of around $153, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	$171
February	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$156
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$141
April	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$156
May	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$240
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$198
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$220
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$289
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$208
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$153
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$235
December	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$186

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Sabah

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Sabah 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Sabah hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—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.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Sabah

• Tawau: Tawau is a city located in the area of Sabah, offering a vibrant urban experience for business and family travelers. This bustling destination features shopping centers and local markets, providing plenty of opportunities for retail therapy. Notable attractions include Tawau Hills Park, ideal for outdoor adventures and scenic views, the modern Tawau Federal House for business needs, and the Tawau State Library, perfect for cultural exploration. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby island resorts, making it a well-rounded spot for various interests.
• Api-api Centre: Api-api Centre is a village located in the area of Sabah, attracting travelers seeking a blend of business and leisure. With its charming streets and proximity to beautiful beaches, this area is perfect for family outings and city exploration. Key highlights include the Kota Kinabalu Esplanade, a great spot for outdoor activities, Sutera Harbour for picturesque views, and the Sabah State Mosque, which offers rich cultural insights. The local shopping centers and markets add to the convenience and enjoyment for visitors.
• Kota Belud: Kota Belud is a city located in the area of Sabah, renowned for its breathtaking outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. This vibrant locale boasts access to public markets and resorts, enhancing the travel experience. A must-visit is Mt. Kinabalu, which offers stunning scenery and adventure opportunities for hikers. The Majlis Daerah Kota Belud serves as a modern civic hub, while the nearby Pandan Pandan Island provides a perfect beach getaway. This area is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local culture.

Tips for short-haul flights to Sabah

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

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and organizing outfits strategically. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—most airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This can save you time at the airport, and you may even secure a preferred seat at no extra cost.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before boarding.
• Arrive early—even for short flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Sabah

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

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may let you select a seat earlier, but this might come with an additional fee.
• Arrive early—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, explore the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight based on the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—since the journey will be long, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to ensure you remain hydrated, helping you feel your best upon arrival.