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4 Airports in Sabah: Your Gateway to Borneo

Sabah is a state located on the northern portion of the island of Borneo, Malaysia. It is a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia, with its beautiful islands, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Sabah is also home to several airports that serve domestic and international flights, making it easy for travellers to access the state. 

The state is home to a number of airports, each providing easy access to the different regions of Sabah.  


Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)

The main airport in Sabah is the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), which is the second busiest airport in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur International Airport. 

KKIA is located in the city of Kota Kinabalu and serves as the gateway to Sabah. It is a modern airport with excellent facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges. Major airlines with flights to KKIA include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Scoot Air, and Royal Brunei Airlines. These airlines provide connections to major destinations in Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Japan and China. 


Sandakan Airport (SDK)

Sandakan Airport is located on the east coast of Sabah and provides easy access to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Turtle Islands Park. Tawau Airport, located in the southeast of Sabah, serves as a gateway to the stunning diving spots of Sipadan Island. 



Tawau Airport (TWU)

Tawau Airport is located in the town of Tawau in eastern Sabah. It is the third busiest airport in the state, serving domestic and international flights. The airport has a single terminal building with modern amenities such as cafes, and car rental services. 


Lahad Datu Airport (LDU)

Lahad Datu Airport is a small airport located in the town of Lahad Datu in southeastern Sabah. It serves domestic flights to Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan. The airport has limited facilities, but it provides essential services to travellers visiting the town and nearby areas. Most importantly it is the gateway to Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife Sanctuary

Overall, Sabah's airports provide excellent connectivity to the region and make it easy for travellers to explore this beautiful part of Sabah, Malaysia. Whether you're looking to explore the city of Kota Kinabalu, dive in the crystal clear waters of Sipadan Island, or trek through the rainforests of Sabah, Sabah's airports provide easy access to all of these destinations. 

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Photo Credits: HTJJP (SDK), M Radzi Desa (TWU), CEphoto, Uwe Aranas (LDU)