| IATA Code | BWN |
| ICAO Code | WBSB |
| City | Bandar Seri Begawan |
| Distance to City Centre | About 10 km |
| Status | International |
| Annual Passenger Traffic | Over 1.4 million (2024) |
| Schedule | Available on the official website |
Brunei International Airport (BWN) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Bandar Seri Begawan, making the journey quick and simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient ways to get to the terminal.
Public Transport. The most economical option is the purple city buses. Several routes (including No. 23, 24, 36, and 38) connect the bus terminal in the city centre with the airport. The fare is only 1 Brunei Dollar (BND). Travel time is about 30-40 minutes due to stops. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers with light luggage, however, it is worth remembering that buses stop running in the early evening and are not suitable for night flights.
Taxi and Transfer. For greater comfort and speed, use a taxi service. A trip from the centre of Bandar Seri Begawan to the airport will take 15-20 minutes and cost approximately 20-25 BND. In Brunei, the mobile app Dart is popular, operating on the same principle as Uber or Careem. Booking a car through the app or arranging a private transfer in advance is a reliable way to get to your flight on time, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively travel around the country, renting a car will be the best solution. Counters for international and local rental agencies are located right at the airport. For those arriving by private or rented transport, there is convenient parking near the terminal with zones for short-term and long-term stays.
For travellers planning a more extensive route around the region, information about other airports located nearby in Malaysia may be useful. These include Limbang Airport (17.5 km), Labuan Airport (53.1 km), Lawas Airport (54.2 km), Mulu Airport (100.2 km), and Marudi Airport (107.6 km).
Brunei International Airport (BWN) is distinguished by a well-thought-out and compact structure, making it very convenient for passengers. The airport operates one main international terminal that serves all flights. Thanks to recent modernization, the terminal building has become modern and spacious, and navigation within it is intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.
The airport layout is logical and simple. The Departures Zone is located on the upper level, accessible immediately from the entrance. Here you will find airline check-in counters, passport control, and security screening points. After completing formalities, passengers enter a spacious waiting hall with shops and cafes. The Arrivals Zone is located on the lower level and includes passport control, the baggage claim area, and customs inspection. Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take minimal time and do not require the use of shuttles or trains.
Completing all pre-flight procedures at the airport of the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, usually does not take much time due to its moderate size and the efficient work of the services. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before an international flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without haste, even during peak hours.
For easy navigation through the terminal, simply follow the clear signs in English and Malay. All important zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within walking distance of each other. The airport is truly easy to get around on foot, and getting lost here is practically impossible, making it one of the most comfortable for travellers in the region.
The history of Bandar Seri Begawan International Airport is closely linked to the economic growth and development of Brunei as an independent nation. Although the first runway in this area was built back in the 1950s, the modern airport, capable of handling large commercial liners, was officially opened in 1974. This event became a turning point for the country, opening it up to international tourism and business connections.
Immediately after opening, the airport became the base for the national carrier, Royal Brunei Airlines, founded in the same year, 1974. This partnership became a growth engine for both: the airline expanded its route network, and the airport expanded its infrastructure to serve the growing number of flights and passengers. Throughout its history, the airport has repeatedly hosted heads of state and witnessed events important to the country.
The most significant modernization phase occurred in the early 2010s and was completed in 2014. During this large-scale reconstruction, the airport's capacity was doubled — from 1.5 to 3 million passengers per year. A new, spacious terminal was built with modern architecture reflecting elements of national culture, runways were updated, and advanced navigation equipment was installed. This modernization transformed the airport into one of the most modern and comfortable air gateways in Southeast Asia.
Among the interesting facts from the airport's history, it is worth noting that its predecessor — an airfield built after World War II — had a gravel surface and was used mainly for military and oil company needs. Today's complex is a high-tech facility that serves not only as a transport hub but also as a symbol of a modern and hospitable Brunei.
Brunei International Airport (BWN) offers passengers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite of both local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are Duty Free shops with a wide selection of perfumes, cosmetics, souvenirs, and other goods, as well as retail stores with essential items.
For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features a VIP Lounge (Royal Brunei Sky Lounge), where you can relax in silence, use workstations, and enjoy snacks and drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting areas so you can always stay connected.
The airport has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, making it easy to resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. In case of need, there is a medical clinic in the terminal ready to provide first aid.
Passengers with children can use mother and child rooms equipped for changing and feeding. The airport is also adapted for travellers with disabilities: ramps, elevators, and special restrooms are provided. Assistance services can be requested if necessary.
Although there is no hotel directly inside the airport building, comfortable hotels are located a few minutes' drive away and are easily accessible by taxi. For business travellers, essential business services such as workspaces and conference facilities are available in the VIP lounge.
At Brunei International Airport (BWN), passengers will find a decent selection of establishments where they can have a snack before departure or a full meal. The majority of cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the public area (landside), before passport control, which is convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off.
In the Arrivals zone and on the ground floor of the terminal, there is a food court with popular international and local chains. Here you can find familiar names such as Burger King, Jollibee, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Additionally, this is a great opportunity to get acquainted with local cuisine. In local cafes, it is worth trying, for example, Nasi Katok — a popular dish of rice with chicken or beef in an aromatic sauce, or grabbing some traditional Roti flatbreads for a snack. This is a wonderful way to taste the flavour of Brunei without leaving the airport.
After passing through control (airside), in the Departures zone, the choice becomes more limited but sufficient to comfortably wait for your flight. Usually, there are several coffee shops operating here where you can order drinks, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. This is an ideal option if you want to take something on board or have a light snack at the gate.
One of the key features of dining in Brunei is that practically all food is Halal certified, and the airport is no exception. Vegetarians will also be able to find suitable options, especially in cafes offering salads or in Asian cuisine restaurants, where dishes with vegetables and tofu are often available. Gluten-free options may be more difficult to find, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff.
Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, and major chain cafes may be open 24 hours or until the last departure. If you are short on time, fast food outlets will be the best choice. For a quieter lunch or dinner, head to the food court in the public area.
Travelling through Brunei International Airport in the city of Bandar Seri Begawan, the main air gateway of Brunei, usually proceeds calmly and in an organized manner. To make your trip even more comfortable, take advantage of these tips.
Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure. Although the airport is not overly large, this will give you enough time to go through all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Check-in counters usually close one hour before departure.
Hand Luggage and Safety. Security screening is standard, but remember the strict laws of the country. Liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, and weapons are prohibited in hand luggage. Critically important: the import of alcohol, pork and pork products, as well as electronic cigarettes (vapes) into Brunei is strictly prohibited, even for transit passengers. Do not attempt to carry these items to avoid serious legal issues.
Customs Control. Be prepared for a thorough customs inspection upon arrival. Fill out the customs declaration in advance and honestly declare all goods subject to declaration. Drugs are completely banned, and penalties for trafficking them are extremely severe. If you are unsure whether an item can be imported, it is better to declare it and ask a customs officer.
Seat Selection. If you are flying with Royal Brunei Airlines, the national carrier, check the cabin layout on their website. Window seats will offer you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, especially over the island of Borneo. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up frequently during the flight.
Transit Passengers. The airport offers comfortable conditions for waiting for the next flight: there is a food court, duty-free shops, and waiting lounges. If you have a long layover and want to explore the city, check the visa requirements for your nationality in advance. The airport is located close to the city centre, making a short excursion quite possible.
Saving Time and Money. To get from the airport to the city, you can use taxi services or a more budget-friendly option — the local ride-hailing app Dart. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than in the city, so if you want to save money, have a snack before arriving at the airport.
Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative. They will provide up-to-date information and, depending on the length of the delay, may offer vouchers for food or drinks. During this time, you can use the free Wi-Fi to inform loved ones about the change of plans or simply pass the time.
Reached the end of the page?
That means the route is fully explored