On this page, you can find and book flights from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu. The flight between these two cities within the state of Sabah covers a distance of 221 km, with approximately 32 flights operating weekly.
Direct service is provided by AirAsia (AK), Firefly (FY), and Malindo Air (OD). Ticket prices are dynamic, so we recommend using the low-fare calendar to find the best deals. You can also explore options for getting to the departure airport or leaving the destination airport.
The table shows direct flights Sandakan → Kota Kinabalu on the selected date. The flight takes approximately 45 min. Regular flights are operated by AirAsia, Batik Air (Malindo Airways Sdn Bhd dba Batik Air Malaysia) and Firefly. Departures from Sandakan Airport airports, arrivals at Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
For each flight, the following details are shown: departure time (local), arrival city and airport, flight number and airline, terminal or gate, and status. Click on a flight to open its details and go to ticket search. To view flights on a different day, change the date above the table.
Below is a calendar of the lowest flight ticket prices for Sandakan — Kota Kinabalu by day. Pick a convenient date and instantly see the fare. The cheapest flights on this route start from AED 71 in y, and the most expensive are around AED 238 in a. If your travel dates are flexible, the calendar will help you find the best price for your preferred period. To view round-trip fares, switch to the "Round trip" tab above the calendar, select your departure date — and the right-hand calendar will highlight the lowest prices for return flights on each day.
Sandakan → Kota Kinabalu, average one-way price
| Month | Average price | Level | Month | Average price | Level | Month | Average price | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | AED 120 | low | May | AED 140 | medium | Sep | AED 130 | low |
| Feb | AED 155 | high | Jun | AED 160 | high | Oct | AED 125 | low |
| Mar | AED 135 | medium | Jul | AED 165 | high | Nov | AED 130 | low |
| Apr | AED 125 | low | Aug | AED 160 | high | Dec | AED 155 | high |
Some values are estimated based on seasonality.
The hottest weather in Kota Kinabalu occurs in May, with average highs reaching 29.1°C. December is considered the rainiest month, while the highest number of dry days (up to 11 per month) is recorded in July.
In terms of flight costs, it is most economical to travel in July, with fares starting AED 71. Prices peak in February, when ticket prices start AED 238.
The best time to visit is July, offering the ideal combination of weather conditions and affordable fares. It is best to avoid the period from October to December due to the heaviest tropical rainfall.
Regular air service between the cities is provided by three airlines: AirAsia, Firefly, and Malindo Air. The majority of flights are operated by the low-cost carrier AirAsia, which offers daily departures at the most affordable rates. You can check the detailed flight schedule and choose a convenient time from the list below.
Flights Sandakan — Kota Kinabalu depart from Sandakan Airport and arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Below are pages for the cities, countries, and airports on the route: airlines, schedules, and travel guides.
The distance between the cities is only 221 km, so a direct flight takes about 45–55 minutes, excluding taxiing time at the airport.
Regular flights are operated by AirAsia, Firefly, and Malindo Air, offering a total of about 32 flights per week.
Yes, most flights on this route are direct, allowing you to travel quickly from Sandakan to the capital of Sabah.
All flights arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI). Information on how to get from the airport to the city center can be found in the relevant section.
Flight prices change constantly; the current lowest offers starting from 1,422 ₽ are displayed in the low-fare calendar and price dynamic chart on this page.
Where travelers fly most — pick a route and check prices
