Lawas Airport

Lawas Airport (LWY) is not just a runway, but a true aerial gateway to one of the most authentic and remote corners of the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Located in the border town of the same name, this small airport plays a key role in connecting the region with the rest of Malaysia. For travellers, it serves as a starting point for exploring the wildlife of Borneo, discovering the unique local culture, and enjoying tranquillity away from noisy tourist routes. Despite its modest size, the airport provides vital transport links for locals and opens doors for adventure seekers.

The main feature of Lawas Airport lies in its STOL (Short Take-off and Landing) status, which means it is capable of handling aircraft that require a short runway. This is critically important for ensuring air connectivity in challenging terrain. Although the airport offers a basic set of services, its main advantage is its strategic location. From here, travellers can easily reach natural attractions such as the Penawan Waterfalls Eco Park and Punang Beach, known for the production of the local smoked fish "tahai".

Currently, there are plans to relocate the airport to a new site due to its proximity to the river and to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the ATR 72. This indicates the growing importance of Lawas as a transport hub and tourist destination. For the traveller, today's airport is a charming example of a compact and functional regional air hub that serves as a bridge to the unexplored corners of Malaysia.

To ensure your journey through Lawas Airport (LWY) goes smoothly, we have compiled all the necessary contact information. Save this to easily contact airport services if needed.

• Official Website: Lawas Airport is managed by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB). It does not have a separate website, but up-to-date information can be found on the operator's general portal: www.malaysiaairports.com.my.
• Information Desk Phone: +60 85-285 242. When calling from another country, do not forget to dial the international code for Malaysia (+60).
• Airport Address: Lapangan Terbang Lawas, Peti Surat 454, 98850, Lawas, Sarawak, Malaysia.
• Email: A separate email address for Lawas Airport is not provided. For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the MAHB website.
• Social Media: To stay updated with news, you can follow the official Malaysia Airports accounts, which cover all airports in the country.
• Lost and Found Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you need to contact your airline's support service directly. For items left in the airport terminal, contact the information desk at the phone number provided.
• Customer Service Contacts: For consultations and assistance with general questions, use the main airport information desk phone number.

Lawas Airport (LWY) is located in the immediate vicinity of the town of the same name in Malaysia, so getting to it from the centre of Lawas is quick and easy. Although the choice of transport here is not as extensive as in major metropolitan areas, the available options are quite convenient for travellers.

Taxi and Transfer are the most popular and practical ways to get to the airport. A trip from anywhere in the town will take just 5–10 minutes, as the distance to the terminal is only a couple of kilometres. The cost of the trip will be low. You can hail a taxi on the street or ask to book a car at your hotel reception. Some hotels also offer their own transfer services, which can be especially convenient if you are travelling with heavy luggage.

Public Transport in the conventional sense (dedicated express buses, trains, or metro) does not run to Lawas Airport. This is a small regional airport, and the town's transport system does not provide dedicated routes. Theoretically, one could use local minibuses if their route passes near the airport, but for tourists with suitcases, this is an extremely inconvenient option.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively explore the Sabah and Sarawak region. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement. Rental counters may be absent directly within the airport terminal, so it is better to book a car in advance online or at one of the rental agencies in the town itself. The road to the airport is simple and straightforward, and having your own transport eliminates the need to look for a taxi.

Airport Parking will not cause any difficulties. Next to the terminal, there is a small parking area where you can leave your car for both short and long terms. Given the size of the airport, the car park is located just a few steps from the building entrance, which is very convenient.

Lawas Airport (LWY) is a small regional airport, typical of many small towns in Malaysia. Its infrastructure is as simple and functional as possible, making it very convenient for passengers. The airport operates with just one terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights.

The terminal layout is extremely simple and intuitive. Essentially, it is a single-storey building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Immediately at the entrance, you will find the check-in counters, followed by a small waiting area and the boarding gate. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building but have different exits. It is practically impossible to get lost here, even if you are visiting the airport for the first time.

Thanks to its compact size and low passenger flow, all pre-flight formalities at Lawas Airport take minimal time. Check-in and security screening procedures are very quick. As a rule, for domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 45-60 minutes before departure — this time will be more than enough to drop off luggage and proceed to the boarding gate without rushing.

Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need to worry about transfers between terminals. All operations are concentrated in one place, which is the main advantage of LWY. The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the few signs, which are clearly visible and logically placed. You will not need complex maps or long walks — everything you need is literally two steps away.

Lawas Airport (LWY) is not merely a runway, but a vital transport artery for the town of Lawas and the entire district in the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. Its history is closely linked to the need to ensure reliable connectivity with remote areas of the island of Borneo. Originally built as a Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) aerodrome, it was designed to service small aircraft capable of operating in limited spaces.

For decades, the airport was a key node in the Rural Air Services network operated by MASwings. Flights connected Lawas with cities such as Miri, Ba'Kelalan, and Kota Kinabalu, transporting passengers, mail, and essential goods. For many locals, the aeroplane was and remains the fastest, and at times the only, way to reach other parts of the country.

One of the most well-known and, unfortunately, problematic aspects of the airport's history is its location. The runway is situated in immediate proximity to the Lawas River, which has repeatedly created flight safety risks. Several incidents where aircraft overshot the runway only highlighted the need for modernisation and the search for a new, safer location for the air harbour.

A key event in the modern history of the airport was the decision to construct an entirely new terminal complex. The project, approved by the Malaysian government, involves relocating the airport to a new site, further away from the river and urban development. The new infrastructure will be capable of accommodating larger aircraft, such as the ATR 72, which will not only improve safety but also open new opportunities for economic growth and tourism development in the region.

Lawas Airport (LWY) is a small regional airport serving the town of Lawas and its surroundings in Malaysia. Given its compact size, the range of services here is basic and focused on meeting the essential needs of passengers before departure.

In the airport terminal, you will find a small café or snack bar where you can buy drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. There may also be a small shop selling daily necessities and souvenirs. There are no luxury restaurants or a wide selection of duty-free shops here. The main waiting hall offers passengers standard seating for rest before boarding. Specialized VIP lounges are absent.

For those who need to stay connected, the airport may provide basic free Wi-Fi, although its speed and stability may be limited. It is recommended to charge your devices in advance, although you can find a few power outlets in the waiting area to recharge gadgets.

Financial services at Lawas Airport are minimal. There are no bank branches or currency exchange bureaus here. Passengers are advised to take care of currency exchange in advance. There may be an ATM in the terminal for cash withdrawals. In case first aid is needed, there is a medical point at the airport.

Basic facilities are provided for passengers with special needs. The airport is equipped for access by passengers with reduced mobility, and staff are ready to provide assistance during boarding and disembarking. For travellers with small children, a nursing room may be available. It is best to check the availability and location of such facilities with airport staff.

There are no hotels within the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are in the town of Lawas, which can be reached by taxi. Business services, such as conference rooms or business centres, are not provided at Lawas Airport.

Lawas Airport (LWY) is a small regional airport serving mainly local flights. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and designed for passengers who need a quick snack before departure, rather than a full lunch or dinner.

On the airport premises, you will likely find one or two small kiosks or a modest cafeteria located in the main hall of the single terminal. These outlets are accessible to both departing and arriving passengers. Do not expect a variety of restaurants or chain coffee shops here, as you would in major international hubs.

The menu usually features basic snacks: packaged crisps, biscuits, sandwiches, as well as soft drinks, bottled water, instant coffee, and tea. Sometimes you can find simple local dishes, for example, pre-packaged Nasi Lemak or traditional Malaysian sweets (Kuih). This is a great opportunity to try something authentic, even if the selection is small.

Specialized dietary options, such as strict vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes, are generally unavailable at Lawas Airport. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is highly recommended to bring food with you. However, as this is Malaysia, local food options are typically Halal. Prices in local kiosks are usually low and geared towards local travellers.

For a full meal, it is better to eat at one of the establishments in the town of Lawas before travelling to the airport. The outlets at the airport are perfect for buying a bottle of water or a light snack while waiting for boarding. Their opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so they may be closed late at night or early in the morning.

To make your journey through Lawas Airport maximally comfortable, make use of these helpful tips. Advance preparation will help avoid stress and save time, which is better spent anticipating your travels across Malaysia.

Arrival time at the airport. Lawas Airport serves domestic flights, so to comfortably complete all procedures, it is recommended to arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage and pass through security control without rushing.

Check-in and security control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage. When passing through security, be prepared to remove all electronics (laptops, tablets) and liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, from your hand luggage.

Seat selection on the plane. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, aisle seats allow you to stand up freely, and seats in the front of the cabin ensure a quicker exit after landing.

Hand luggage: what is allowed and prohibited. Be sure to pack documents, money, valuables, necessary electronics, and chargers in your hand luggage. It is prohibited to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Always check your airline's rules, as they may differ slightly.

For passengers with connections. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Lawas. Also, find out if you will need to pass through security control again. Calculate your time with a margin to move calmly through the airport.

Saving time and money. Book a transfer from the airport in advance to avoid inflated prices on arrival. Bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control — this is more economical than buying overpriced water.

In case of flight delay. The main thing is to stay calm. Monitor information on the departure boards and announcements. Contact your airline's counter to learn about your rights — depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Use the free time to rest, perform prayers, or read by connecting to the airport Wi-Fi if available.