A large outdoor swimming pool surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs.

Cheap Flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

View AU$85 flight on Thu, 12 Nov 2026Opens in a new window

Flight 1

Popular airlines from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport (BKI)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 35% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our rewards
    Sign in

Cheap Flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Prices were available within the past 7 days for one-way flights and round trip tickets for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

AirAsia
Mon, 18 Jan - Mon, 25 Jan
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$169 Return, found 4 days ago
AU$169
Return
found 4 days ago
Select AirAsia flight, departing Mon, 18 Jan from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Mon, 25 Jan, priced at AU$169 found 4 days ago
Malaysia Airlines
Tue, 16 Feb - Tue, 2 Mar
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$174 Return, found 5 days ago
AU$174
Return
found 5 days ago
Select Malaysia Airlines flight, departing Tue, 16 Feb from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Tue, 2 Mar, priced at AU$174 found 5 days ago
Firefly
Tue, 5 Jan - Tue, 12 Jan
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$175 Return, found 2 days ago
AU$175
Return
found 2 days ago
Select Firefly flight, departing Tue, 5 Jan from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Tue, 12 Jan, priced at AU$175 found 2 days ago
AirAsia
Fri, 19 Feb - Sun, 21 Feb
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$176 Return, found 1 hour ago
AU$176
Return
found 1 hour ago
Select AirAsia flight, departing Fri, 19 Feb from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Sun, 21 Feb, priced at AU$176 found 1 hour ago
Malaysia Airlines
Tue, 5 Jan - Tue, 12 Jan
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$185 Return, found 2 days ago
AU$185
Return
found 2 days ago
Select Malaysia Airlines flight, departing Tue, 5 Jan from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Tue, 12 Jan, priced at AU$185 found 2 days ago
AirAsia
Mon, 18 Jan - Mon, 25 Jan
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$188 Return, found 4 days ago
AU$188
Return
found 4 days ago
Select AirAsia flight, departing Mon, 18 Jan from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Mon, 25 Jan, priced at AU$188 found 4 days ago
AirAsia
Mon, 5 July - Fri, 9 July
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$190 Return, found 3 hours ago
AU$190
Return
found 3 hours ago
Select AirAsia flight, departing Mon, 5 July from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Fri, 9 July, priced at AU$190 found 3 hours ago
Malaysia Airlines
Fri, 12 Feb - Wed, 24 Feb
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$194 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$194
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Malaysia Airlines flight, departing Fri, 12 Feb from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Wed, 24 Feb, priced at AU$194 found 1 day ago
AirAsia
Thu, 8 Oct - Mon, 12 Oct
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$195 Return, found 3 days ago
AU$195
Return
found 3 days ago
Select AirAsia flight, departing Thu, 8 Oct from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Mon, 12 Oct, priced at AU$195 found 3 days ago
Batik air
Fri, 16 Oct - Fri, 13 Nov
KUL
Kuala Lumpur
BKI
Kota Kinabalu
AU$274 Return, found 2 days ago
AU$274
Return
found 2 days ago
Select Batik air flight, departing Fri, 16 Oct from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, returning Fri, 13 Nov, priced at AU$274 found 2 days ago

Alternative airports near Kota Kinabalu

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Kota Kinabalu Intl. BKI. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city centre is 9 minutes. Flights from AU$289
BKI
Kota Kinabalu Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city centre9 min
Flights from AU$289

Find the cheapest month to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From AU$173 - AU$218 per traveller.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from AU$85 and cheap return flights from AU$169 KUL to BKI with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between AU$108 and AU$580 and return flights often range between AU$196 and AU$1,170. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when KUL to BKI ticket fares go up or down.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
If you're looking for the cheapest time to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), November is typically your best bet. You can expect average return flight prices around AU$122 during this month. Other budget-friendly months to consider for this route include April and October.
Which airlines fly direct from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
There are 4 airlines offering direct flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu Intl. (BKI). Here are the top carriers:
  • AirAsia operates 105 direct flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. to Kota Kinabalu Intl. every week.
  • Malaysia Airlines operates 64 direct flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. to Kota Kinabalu Intl. every week.
  • Malindo Air operates 38 direct flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. to Kota Kinabalu Intl. every week.
  • Firefly operates 12 direct flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. to Kota Kinabalu Intl. every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
AirAsia is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop return flights from Kuala Lumpur Intl. (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu Intl. (BKI), with tickets starting from around AU$104 for flights that can be booked for departure within the next year. Malindo Air is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting return flights on this route, with tickets starting from around AU$231. These prices are per adult for economy/coach class. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
How do I find cheap flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)?
To find a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, AirAsia offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Firefly typically offers the lowest fares. Thai Airways International offers the most daily flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
The cheapest months to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) are typically November and April, with average return flights around AU$122. The most popular months for this route are January and December, meaning you'll find plenty of flight options during those times. While there isn't a single month that is both the cheapest and most popular, if you're looking for the best value, aiming for November or April could save you money, while January and December offer the most flexibility in terms of flight schedules.
How many flights per day from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
You'll find plenty of options for flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI). There are approximately 31 nonstop flights per day, giving you lots of flexibility to choose a time that suits you. For even more choices, look at flights that include layovers, as there are around 6 connecting flights per day. Some common connection points include Suvarnabhumi Intl. (BKK), Tawau (TWU), and Kuching Intl. (KCH).
What is the earliest flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) typically departs around 5:30 AM local time, operated by Firefly. This is a seasonal service active in December. An early departure like this can help you make the most of your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
You'll generally find the most flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) on a Thursday, with around 31 flights available. This gives you a good selection of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air. Looking at the week, Thursday offers notably more flight options compared to other days, which typically have around 23 to 26 flights.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) are between 12pm and 3pm. Many major carriers, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo Air, offer flights during this window. Many travellers prefer this time as it allows for a relaxed morning before heading to the airport, and you'll arrive in Kota Kinabalu in the afternoon with plenty of time to settle in.
How long does it take to fly from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
A non-stop flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) typically takes around 2 hours 48 minutes. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,629 kilometers (1,012 miles). If you opt for a one-stop flight, your travel time will be longer, usually around 7 hours 30 minutes. Flights with two or more stops can take significantly longer, often around 23 hours. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to factors like wind patterns and air traffic, so it's always a good idea to allow for some extra time when planning your trip.
Can you fly business or first class from Kuala Lumpur (KUL-Kuala Lumpur Intl.) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?
You can fly business class between KUL and BKI. You can fly business class with Malaysia Airlines and Malindo Air.
How do I earn miles on a Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Kota Kinabalu (BKI) from Kuala Lumpur (KUL)?
If you're planning to travel to Kota Kinabalu from Kuala Lumpur Intl. (KUL), you can fly directly into Kota Kinabalu Intl. (BKI). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Miri (MYY), Sultan Ismail Petra (KBR), or Sandakan (SDK) before reaching Kota Kinabalu. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)?
If you booked your Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Kuala Lumpur Intl.
Destination airport
Kota Kinabalu Intl.
Airlines serving
Batik air , Firefly, Malaysia Airlines
Roundtrip price
AU$169
Distance
1619 km
Average flight time
2 hours 32 mins

Book with confidence

Your quick guide to flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Pick up great flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

With Expedia, you have your pick of flights a day with 20 airlines covering flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. Whether you’re on a business trip, a family holiday or a luxury break, just enter your travel dates, hit search then check out your choice of flights. Select from return, one way or multi-city flights, and use the advance search tool if you want a direct or refundable flight. You can narrow your search to show you just your preferred cabin class and airline, too. It’s all easy. You can book direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu that take around hours.

Find cheap flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

From the great flight deals with prices currently ranging from AU$169 to AU$274, you can choose to see the cheapest flights first. Generally, you can book the cheapest flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu around 4 to 6 weeks in advance. If your travel dates are flexible, try to avoid weekends and peak seasons – when you are more likely to grab the lowest prices. Even last minute, there are some impressive deals. The cheapest time to fly to Kota Kinabalu is normally in January.

Reasons to book your flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu with Expedia

Expedia makes it easy to find, book, and travel, with everything you need all in one place. When you enter your travel details, find fantastic deals just for you on flight tickets from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu across all the main airline carriers, so you can save time, dollars, and hassle finding the perfect flight. If you think your plans could change, choose refundable flights so any changes won’t cost you more. Book your flight to Kota Kinabalu right now and, if you join Expedia Rewards, you earn points this time and every time you travel with Expedia.

Your quick guide to flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

*Available to Expedia members.