Your Complete Guide to Flights from Langkawi to Alor Setar
Planning a journey from the beautiful island of Langkawi to the cultural hub of Alor Setar? Whether you're traveling for business, visiting family, or exploring northern Malaysia, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about flying between these two destinations. Located just 75 kilometers apart, this short journey connects two of Malaysia's most distinct locations - from Langkawi's tropical paradise to Alor Setar's rich cultural heritage.
Direct Flights
While the distance between Langkawi and Alor Setar is relatively short at approximately 75 kilometers, currently there are no scheduled direct flights operating on this route. Despite the short aerial distance that would typically result in a flight time of about 36 minutes, airlines do not currently offer nonstop service between these destinations.
Layover Flights
Since direct flights are unavailable, travelers must consider connecting flights through Kuala Lumpur. Here are the best options for making this journey:
Route: Langkawi (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Sultan Abdul Halim (Malaysia)
Airlines: Batik Air
Total Flight Duration: 3h 40m
Aircraft: Boeing 737
Layovers:
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 1h 20m
Route: Langkawi (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Sultan Abdul Halim (Malaysia)
Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
Total Flight Duration: 6h 30m
Aircraft: Boeing 737
Layovers:
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 4h 10m
Route: Langkawi (Malaysia) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Sultan Abdul Halim (Malaysia)
Airlines: Malaysia Airlines
Total Flight Duration: 5h 20m
Aircraft: Boeing 737
Layovers:
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia layover for 2h 55m
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
About Langkawi Intl - Langkawi
Location
Langkawi Intl Airport is located approximately 20 kilometers from Kuah town, the main commercial center of Langkawi Island. The airport is situated in the southwestern part of the island, near Padang Matsirat. As the main gateway to Langkawi, this international airport connects the island to various domestic and international destinations, making it a crucial transportation hub for tourists and locals alike.
Airport Terminal
Langkawi International Airport features a modern terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. The single terminal building is designed with a tropical aesthetic that reflects the island's natural beauty. Despite its relatively small size compared to major international airports, the terminal is well-equipped to handle the flow of tourists visiting this popular vacation destination. The layout is straightforward, making navigation easy for travelers with clear signage in multiple languages.
Transport to Airport
Getting to Langkawi International Airport is convenient with several transportation options available:
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the island and provide door-to-door service to the airport. Fares vary depending on your starting location, with journeys from Kuah town costing approximately RM30-40.
- Airport Shuttle: Some hotels offer shuttle services to the airport, either complimentary or for a small fee. Check with your accommodation for availability.
- Rental Car: If you've rented a car during your stay in Langkawi, the airport is easily accessible via well-maintained roads. The airport has parking facilities available for both short and long-term stays.
- Ride-sharing Services: E-hailing services operate on the island and can be a convenient option for airport transfers.
Facilities
Langkawi International Airport offers a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers:
- Dining Options: Several cafes and restaurants serving both local Malaysian cuisine and international fare.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops selling a variety of goods including chocolates, perfumes, liquor, and local souvenirs.
- Banking Services: ATMs and currency exchange counters are available within the terminal.
- Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet access throughout the terminal.
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers.
- Medical Services: A first aid room for emergency medical assistance.
- Information Counter: Staffed by helpful personnel who can assist with travel inquiries.
- Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport.
- Lounges: VIP lounges available for premium travelers.
About Sultan Abdul Halim - Alor Setar
Location
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport is located approximately 10 kilometers north of Alor Setar city center in the state of Kedah, Malaysia. As the main airport serving the state capital, it provides essential connectivity for business travelers, tourists, and locals. The airport's strategic position makes it an important gateway to northern Malaysia and southern Thailand.
Airport Terminal
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport features a modern terminal building that handles domestic flights within Malaysia. The terminal is compact yet functional, designed to efficiently process passengers while providing necessary amenities. The single-level structure makes navigation straightforward for travelers, with clear signage guiding visitors through check-in, security, and boarding areas. Though smaller than international terminals, it maintains a comfortable atmosphere with adequate seating throughout.
Transport From Airport
Travelers arriving at Sultan Abdul Halim Airport have several transportation options to reach Alor Setar city or other destinations:
- Taxi: Taxis are the most common mode of transport from the airport. A taxi stand is located just outside the arrival area, with fixed fares to various destinations. A journey to Alor Setar city center typically costs around RM20-25.
- Rental Car: Car rental services are available at the airport, offering flexibility for travelers who prefer to drive themselves.
- Private Transfer: Pre-arranged private transfers can be booked through Traveloka for a seamless airport pickup experience.
- Public Bus: Limited public bus services connect the airport to Alor Setar city, though they run on fixed schedules and may not always coincide with flight arrivals.
Facilities
Sultan Abdul Halim Airport provides essential facilities to meet travelers' needs:
- Dining Options: A few cafes and food kiosks offering local Malaysian snacks and beverages.
- Retail Outlets: Small shops selling travel necessities, local products, and souvenirs.
- ATMs: Banking facilities for cash withdrawals.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary wireless internet access in the terminal.
- Prayer Rooms: Designated prayer areas for Muslim travelers.
- Information Counter: Staffed service desk providing travel information and assistance.
- Waiting Areas: Comfortable seating areas for passengers and those waiting for arrivals.
- Accessibility Features: Facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
FAQ Langkawi to Alor Setar Flight
- Question: How far is Langkawi from Alor Setar by air?
Answer: The aerial distance between Langkawi and Alor Setar is approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles), making it a very short flight journey if direct flights were available. - Question: How long does it take to fly from Langkawi to Alor Setar?
Answer: While a direct flight would take about 36 minutes, currently only connecting flights via Kuala Lumpur are available, with total journey times ranging from approximately 3 hours 40 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes, depending on the layover duration. - Question: What is the best way to book flights from Langkawi to Alor Setar?
Answer: Traveloka offers the most convenient booking platform for flights between Langkawi and Alor Setar, with options to compare different connecting flights, prices, and schedules all in one place. The user-friendly interface allows for easy comparison of available options. - Question: How much do flights typically cost from Langkawi to Alor Setar?
Answer: Flight prices vary depending on the season, how far in advance you book, and current promotions. Connecting flights via Kuala Lumpur typically start from around RM200-300 for a one-way journey. Traveloka regularly offers special deals that may reduce these prices. - Question: Which airlines operate flights between Langkawi and Alor Setar?
Answer: While there are no direct flights, connecting services via Kuala Lumpur are primarily operated by Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air. These airlines offer reliable service with modern Boeing 737 aircraft on most routes. - Question: Is it better to fly or take alternative transportation between Langkawi and Alor Setar?
Answer: Despite the need for a connection, flying may still be the most convenient option for travelers with limited time. However, the combined ferry and land transport option can be more economical and potentially take similar total travel time depending on connections. - Question: What are the baggage allowances for flights between Langkawi and Alor Setar?
Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. Typically, Malaysia Airlines offers 20-30kg checked baggage for economy class, while Batik Air usually provides 15-20kg. Always verify the specific allowance when booking through Traveloka. - Question: Can I find last-minute flights from Langkawi to Alor Setar?
Answer: Last-minute flights are usually available, though they may come at premium prices. Traveloka's platform allows you to search for last-minute options and occasionally offers flash deals that can help mitigate higher costs for urgent travel needs.
Other Ways to Travel From Langkawi to Alor Setar
For travelers seeking alternatives to air travel, several options connect Langkawi to Alor Setar:
- Ferry and Land Transport Combination:
Route: Langkawi Kuah Jetty → Kuala Kedah Jetty → Alor Setar
Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours total
Details: Take a ferry from Langkawi's Kuah Jetty to Kuala Kedah Jetty (1.5-2 hours), then continue by taxi or bus to Alor Setar city center (30-45 minutes). This option offers scenic views of the Andaman Sea during the ferry journey. - Ferry and Bus Combination:
Route: Langkawi Kuah Jetty → Kuala Perlis Jetty → Alor Setar
Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours total
Details: Take a ferry from Langkawi to Kuala Perlis (approximately 1.5 hours), then catch a bus to Alor Setar (about 2 hours). This route can sometimes be more economical than the Kuala Kedah option. - Private Charter Boat:
Route: Direct boat from Langkawi to mainland near Alor Setar
Duration: Approximately 2-2.5 hours
Details: Private boats can be chartered for direct transport, offering flexibility in departure times. While more expensive than public ferries, this option provides privacy and potentially faster travel time. - Helicopter Service:
Route: Direct helicopter transfer from Langkawi to Alor Setar
Duration: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Details: For luxury travelers or those with urgent business, helicopter charters offer the fastest transportation option, though at a premium price point.
Explore Alor Setar
Popular Destinations in Alor Setar
- Zahir Mosque (Masjid Zahir) - One of Malaysia's most beautiful and oldest mosques, featuring stunning Moorish architecture with black domes and classic Islamic design elements. The mosque was built in 1912 and serves as both a religious center and architectural landmark.
- Kedah Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Kedah) - Housed in the former Kedah Royal Palace, this museum showcases the royal heritage of Kedah with displays of royal regalia, artifacts, and historical exhibits that provide insight into the sultanate's rich history.
- Menara Alor Setar - This 165.5-meter telecommunications tower offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding paddy fields from its observation deck. The tower also houses a revolving restaurant, making it an ideal spot for dining with a view.
- Balai Nobat - A distinctive three-tiered octagonal tower that houses the royal musical instruments used during coronation ceremonies and royal functions. This cultural landmark represents the importance of traditional music in Kedah's royal protocols.
- Kedah State Art Gallery (Balai Seni Negeri) - Located in a beautiful colonial building, this gallery showcases artwork from local and national artists, offering visitors a glimpse into Malaysia's contemporary and traditional art scenes.
Popular Cuisine in Alor Setar
- Laksa Kedah - A local variant of the popular Malaysian noodle dish, Kedah laksa features a fish-based soup with asam (tamarind) giving it a distinctive sour flavor, served with rice noodles and garnished with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Nasi Ulam - A traditional rice dish mixed with various herbs, vegetables, and spices. The Kedah version often includes local herbs and sometimes dried fish, creating a fragrant and flavorful meal that represents the region's agricultural heritage.
- Kuih Karas - A crispy deep-fried snack made from rice flour batter, drizzled in intricate patterns into hot oil. This local delicacy is usually served as a tea-time treat and is particularly popular during festive seasons.
- Pulut Inti - Sticky glutinous rice topped with sweet coconut filling, wrapped in banana leaf. This traditional dessert exemplifies the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that characterizes much of Malaysian cuisine.
- Gulai Nangka - Young jackfruit cooked in a rich, spicy coconut milk curry. This dish showcases the region's expertise in transforming local vegetables into hearty, flavorful curries that pair perfectly with rice.
Traveling from Langkawi to Alor Setar offers a fascinating journey from an island paradise to a historical city rich in Malay heritage. Whether you choose to fly via Kuala Lumpur for convenience or take the scenic route by sea and land, both destinations offer unique Malaysian experiences worth exploring. With Traveloka's comprehensive flight search and booking platform, planning your journey between these two captivating destinations has never been easier.