Shortened to KKIA with airport code BKI, the International Airport at Kota Kinabalu is Malaysia’s second busiest and directly serves the busy city of Kota Kinabalu.
Theoretically, Terminal 1 can handle up to 12 million passengers annually. Passengers can make use of taxi operators or airport-supplied busses to travel the 8km from the city centre to the airport.
As the gateway to Sabah, the Kota Kinabalu International Airport is conveniently just 7km away from the city of Kota Kinabalu.\
At Kota Kinabalu International Airport all the airport trolleys are free to use, and the airport has a number of duty-free stores, travel agents, restaurants and lounges for the convenience of its guests.
KKIA Airport Services and Facilities
Airport Taxis in Kota Kinabalu
Taxis are well-organized and easy to use thanks to a taxi counter at the arrivals hall where visitors can purchase taxi coupons. If you need to exchange foreign currency in order to purchase the taxi coupons, there are 2 licensed exchange offices outside arrivals too.
A taxi journey should cost in the region of RM30 whereas the bus costs RM5 per person.
How to get a Grab at Kota Kinabalu Airport
The Grab pick-up point is at pillar 5. Exit ang go on the far left after the taxis stand. Grab has become the most popular way to travel from the airport to the city (Uber Malaysia has merged with Grab).
How to rent a Rental Cars in Kota Kinabalu Airport
It’s easy to arrange a rental car at competitive prices online. The rental car will be awaiting your arrival at the airport.
There are also a number of rental car kiosks at KKIA which are conveniently located in the Arrivals Hall on Floor 1.
Duty Free Shopping at KKIA
If you’re travelling from an international destination and arriving at KKIA, the usual selection of alcohol, tobacco and perfume products are available for purchase duty free.
Foreign Exchange at KKIA
Although the rates are not as competitive as in the town centre, it is possible to exchange money at several kiosks in the airport. ATMs and foreign exchange desks can be found in Arrivals on the Ground Floor as well as at the Departures Floor.
In addition, multiple currency exchange options are available in the Kota Kinabalu city centre, specifically at Wisma Merdeka or at Centre Point Shopping Mall.
Luggage Storage in Kota Kinabalu Airport
KKIA offers a luggage storage facility located on Level 3 opposite International Departures. Prices vary according to the size of your luggage and the quantity of bags, but can range from RM5 for 3 hours to RM30 per day. It’s also possible to have your baggage security wrapped at the airport.
Don't forget to note the opening and closing times of the luggage storage facility to avoid having to catch a flight with your luggage safely stored in a locked shop.
Internet and Wifi at the Airport
Free WiFi service is provided by Malaysia Airports. Alternative WiFi spots making use of restaurants such as McDonald’s and Starbucks. There’s also the possibility to visit the airline lounges which offer security-protected WiFi.
Medical Services
There is a medical clinic for passengers on Level 1 of Terminal 1.
Airline Offices in KKIA
Most of the representative airline offices are located on Level 2 of KKIA. Here you’ll find offices for Air Asia, Asiana Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, MAS Wings, Korean Air, Dragon Air and Royal Brunei Airlines.
More Airlines in Kota Kinabalu International Airport
- Air Seoul
- Cathay Dragon
- Cebu Pacific
- China Eastern Airlines
- Shanghai Airlines
- Eastar Jet
- Jeju Air
- Jin Air
- Lion Air
- Lucky Air
- Malindo Air
- Philippines AirAsia
- SilkAir
- Spring Airlines
- Thai Airways
- Thai Smile
- XiamenAir
Restaurants in KKIA
At first there were limited restaurant choices in Terminal 1, with only Asian Delights and McDonald’s on offer, however with the recent closing of Terminal 2 there are now a greater number of restaurant options for passengers to choose from. Between Levels 1 and 3 you’ll find a Dunkin’ Donuts, KFC and Old Town White Coffee as well as a Starbucks and a few other coffee shops and cafes.
Other Airport Shops
There are a number of shopping opportunities at Terminal 1 including perfume and cosmetic stores, book stores, jewellery and handicraft offerings as well as seafood shops.
Schedule for Arrivals and Departures flights
Please get in touch to request the schedule for arrivals and departures at Kota Kinabalu.
Malaysia Entry Requirements
A valid passport (and visa wherever applicable) is required for of everyone entering Malaysia.
A passport is also necessary for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as interstate travel between Sabah and Sarawak.
A social or Tourist Visit Pass does not permit the holder to take up employment, business of professional work in Malaysia.
The Business Visit Pass allows foreign negotiations or inspection of business establishments.
Sabah Immigration
Upon arrival, all visitors will need to complete a Customs Declaration and an Arrival/Departure card. These will be handed out on all inbound flights with Malaysia Airlines. Travelers may also be required to complete a TDF (Travelers Declaration Form) and/or a Quarantine Form.
Note: Transit in KKIA to Tawau Airport and visit the beautiful islands of Sipadan and Mabul. Please contact us for more information.