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

Cheap Flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

Flight 1

Photo by Tourism Malaysia
Open Photo by Tourism Malaysia

Cheap Flights from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu (SDK-BKI)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at AU$35 for one-way flights and AU$69 for return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI)

June is typically the cheapest month to fly

From AU$41 - AU$106 per traveller.

Book with confidence

Your quick guide to flights from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu

Pick up great flights from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu

With Expedia, you have your pick of 6 flights a day with 2 airlines covering flights from Sandakan 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 Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu that take around 0 hours.

Find cheap flights from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu

From the great flight deals with prices currently ranging from AU$69 to AU$661, you can choose to see the cheapest flights first. Generally, you can book the cheapest flights from Sandakan 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 February.

Reasons to book your flight from Sandakan 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 Sandakan 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a flight from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) cost?

You can find one-way and return flights from SDK to BKI with Expedia. 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 our cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when SDK to BKI ticket fares go up or down.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

The cheapest months to fly from SDK to BKI are typically during off-peak season when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you are able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.

Which airlines fly direct from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.). Here are the carriers:
* AirAsia operates 44 direct flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) every week.
* Malindo Air operates 7 direct flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) every week.

How do I find cheap flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

To find a cheap flight from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.), 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

The best airline to fly with from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, AirAsia offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Malindo Air typically offers the lowest fares. Malaysia Airlines offers the most daily flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI), 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.

How many flights per day from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

You'll find approximately 6 nonstop flights per day from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.). For even more choices, look at flights that include layovers, as there are around 2 connecting flights per day. A common connection point is Kuala Lumpur Intl. (KUL).

What is the earliest flight from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

The earliest flight from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) typically departs around 7:35 AM, operated by AirAsia. This is a seasonal service, active in April, July, September, October, November, and 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

You'll find the most flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) on a Thursday, with around 11 flights available. This gives you a good selection of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Malindo Air. There are notably more flight options on Thursdays compared to other days of the week, so if flexibility is key, this might be a good day to consider flying.

What are the most popular departure times for flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

The most popular departure times for flights from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) are between 12pm and 3pm. Many major carriers, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo Air, offer flights during this window. Many travellers prefer these times 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

A non-stop flight from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) typically takes around 48 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 222 kilometres. If you opt for a flight with one stop, your journey will usually take longer, averaging around 9 hours 30 minutes. Flights with two or more stops can extend your travel time significantly, often taking around 23 hours 45 minutes. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to factors like routing, weather, and wind patterns.

Can you fly business or first class from Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

Yes, you can fly business class between SDK and BKI. You can fly business class with Malaysia Airlines.

How do I earn miles on a Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Sandakan (SDK) 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 Sandakan (SDK)?

If you're planning to travel to Kota Kinabalu from SDK, you can fly directly into Kota Kinabalu Intl. (BKI). 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sandakan (SDK) 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Sandakan (SDK) 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 Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.)?

If you booked your Sandakan (SDK) to Kota Kinabalu (BKI-Kota Kinabalu Intl.) 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
Sandakan
Destination airport
Kota Kinabalu Intl. Airport
Distance
222 km away
Airlines serving
AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines
Popular airline
AirAsia
Return price
AU$69
Average flight time
45 mins
*Available to Expedia members.