Airports Near Kota Kinabalu
Looking for the nearest airport to Kota Kinabalu? Kota Kinabalu is served by just one airport within a 50-mile radius, making your choice simple. Here's what you need to know about the closest airport to the city.
What Is the Closest Airport to Kota Kinabalu?
The closest airport to Kota Kinabalu is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), a medium-sized airport located approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) southwest of the city center. The driving distance is about 4.7 miles (7.6 km), which typically takes around 8 minutes by car. Kota Kinabalu International Airport is a well-connected airport.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is Brunei International Airport (BWN), located about 106.2 miles (170.8 km) southwest of Kota Kinabalu in a straight line. The driving distance is around 164.6 miles (264.8 km), with an average travel time of about 3 hours and 36 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
IATA: BKI · ICAO: WBKK
Direct Distance 📏
3 miles
4.8 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
4.7 miles
7.6 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
8 min
Direction ➤
Southwest
Nearby airports to Kota Kinabalu
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kota Kinabalu International Airport | BKI | Kota Kinabalu | 3 mi (4.8 km) | 4.7 mi (7.6 km) | 8 min | Medium-sized |
| Labuan Airport | LBU | Labuan | 73.3 mi (117.9 km) | 106.1 mi (170.7 km) | 5 h 29 min | Medium-sized |
| Kudat Airport | KUD | Kudat | 83.9 mi (135 km) | 110 mi (177 km) | 2 h 40 min | Small |
| Lawas Airport | LWY | Lawas | 90.2 mi (145.2 km) | 116.3 mi (187.1 km) | 2 h 24 min | Small |
| Brunei International Airport | BWN | Bandar Seri Begawan | 106.2 mi (170.8 km) | 164.6 mi (264.8 km) | 3 h 36 min | Large |
| Limbang Airport | LMN | Limbang | 108.8 mi (175.1 km) | 161 mi (259.1 km) | 3 h 35 min | Medium-sized |
| Sandakan Airport | SDK | Sandakan | 136.6 mi (219.9 km) | 203.9 mi (328.1 km) | 4 h 32 min | Medium-sized |
| Ba'kelalan Airport | BKM | Bakalalan | 141.7 mi (228.1 km) | 196.7 mi (316.6 km) | 7 h 43 min | Small |
| Juvai Semaring Airport | LBW | Long Bawan | 145.7 mi (234.5 km) | 210.7 mi (339.1 km) | 8 h 14 min | Small |
Closest Airports to Other Cities Near Kota Kinabalu
Planning to travel somewhere else in the region? Find the closest airport to these nearby cities:
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Kota Kinabalu, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.