Tawau to Kota Kinabalu Flights TWUBKI

Tawau Airport Kota Kinabalu International Airport

🇲🇾 Tawau, MY 🇲🇾 Kota Kinabalu, MY

The Tawau to Kota Kinabalu route connects Tawau Airport (TWU) in MY with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) in MY. This short-haul flight covers approximately 182 miles (293 km) with a typical flight time of 34m. This route is served by 3 airlines: AirAsia, Malindo Air, Firefly. AirportRoutes has tracked 12 daily flights on this route.

About This Route

Route Overview

The Tawau (TWU) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight is a popular domestic route within Malaysia, connecting the southeastern and northwestern coasts of Sabah. Covering a distance of 182 miles (292 km), the flight typically takes around 50 minutes to 1 hour. Many travelers choose this route for business or leisure, avoiding a long and arduous overland journey. With approximately 180 weekly flights operated by 3 airlines, the route offers convenient and frequent connections, making it easy to explore different parts of Sabah. This flight is essential for those seeking efficient access to Kota Kinabalu's attractions and serves as a gateway to further destinations in Borneo and beyond.

Travel Tips

For the best deals, book your flight well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Use online travel agencies or airline websites to compare prices. At Tawau Airport (TWU), check your gate number on the information displays after clearing security. Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is larger, so allow extra time to navigate to your connecting flight or the arrival hall. On board, expect a smooth and short flight with minimal in-flight service. Bring your own entertainment to pass the time. Consider packing light to avoid checked baggage fees. Look out for discounted fares during off-peak travel periods.

Destination Highlights

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, offers a blend of modern city life and natural wonders. Tanjung Aru Beach is perfect for sunset views, while the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque stuns with its unique architecture. Explore the vibrant Central Market for local handicrafts and fresh produce. For panoramic city views, head to Signal Hill Observatory Platform. Food lovers should indulge in fresh seafood at the Welcome Seafood Restaurant. The islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park are a short boat ride away and offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Best Time to Fly

The best time to fly to Kota Kinabalu is generally during the dry season, from March to September, when rainfall is minimal. Peak tourist season is usually around school holidays and major festivals, so expect higher prices then. For value, consider traveling during the shoulder months of April-May or September. The annual Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival in December and the Sabah Fest in May showcase local culture and arts.

AI-Generated Content: This information was compiled using AI from web sources on Dec 25, 2025. Content may not be current; please verify with airlines before booking.

Airport Information

Departure Airport

Tawau Airport

ICAO Code:
WBKW
IATA Code:
TWU
City:
🇲🇾 Tawau
Country:
MY
Elevation:
57 ft

Destination Airport

Kota Kinabalu International Airport

ICAO Code:
WBKK
IATA Code:
BKI
City:
🇲🇾 Kota Kinabalu
Country:
MY
Elevation:
10 ft

Route Statistics

3

Operators

12

Daily Flights

182

Miles

34m

Flight Duration

Route Map

Great Circle
Flight route map from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu

Operating Airlines

Airline ICAO IATA
AirAsia AXM AK
Malindo Air MXD OD
Firefly FFM FY

Flight Schedule Pattern

Day Flights Observed Frequency Activity
Monday 35 12%
Tuesday 69 23%
Wednesday 28 9%
Thursday 42 14%
Friday 50 16%
Saturday 52 17%
Sunday 28 9%

Pattern Analysis

Data Points: 304
API observations used to build this analysis
Weekdays: 224 flights
Weekend: 80 flights
Business Route More active on weekdays

All Flight Routes

3 Routes
Note: This table shows aggregated route data by airline. Each airline may operate multiple daily flights at different times. See the "Spotted Departure Times" section below for all observed departure times.
Airline Flight Numbers Aircraft Type Typical Time Days Active Last Seen Status
AirAsia
AXM / AK
AXM6265 AXM6267 AXM6261 AXM6259 AXM6269 A320 18:15 6:15 PM (Representative)
M T W T F S S
Feb 8, 2026 Active
Firefly
FFM / FY
- B738 -
M T W T F S S
Jul 29, 2025 Active
Malindo Air
MXD / OD
MXD1701 MXD1703 MXD1705 B738 17:40 5:40 PM (Representative)
M T W T F S S
Feb 8, 2026 Active
Total Routes: 3
Active Routes: 3
Unique Airlines: 3
Aircraft Types: 3

Spotted Departure Times

Departure Time Operator ICAO IATA
17:40 5:40 PM Malindo Air MXD OD
18:15 6:15 PM AirAsia AXM AK

Time Information

Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (WBKW - Asia/Kuching).

Total Departure Times: 2
Time Range:
17:40 - 18:15
These are typical departure times observed from actual flights. Times may vary by season and schedule changes.