Flights to Kota Bharu/Kuala Terengganu
Which Airport Should You Choose?
To reach the Perhentian Islands, you have two main options: Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG).
Kota Bharu (KBR): This is the preferred choice for most travelers. It is only about 1 hour away from Kuala Besut Jetty (the departure point for the islands), making it the fastest and most convenient route.
Kuala Terengganu (TGG): A good alternative if you are also visiting Redang Island or if Kota Bharu flights are sold out. However, the drive to the jetty takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.
Direct Flights from Kuala Lumpur & Singapore
Flying is the most popular way to reach the islands, with multiple daily connections from Malaysia’s capital and direct international links from Singapore.
| Route | Airlines | Frequency | Flight Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| KL (KUL) to Kota Bharu | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air | 15+ Flights Daily | Direct |
| KL (Subang) to Kota Bharu | Firefly, Batik Air | ~5 Flights Daily | Direct |
| Singapore to Kota Bharu | Scoot | 4-5 Flights Weekly | Direct |
| KL (KUL) to K. Terengganu | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines | 10+ Flights Daily | Direct |
| Singapore to K. Terengganu | AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines | Daily (via KL) | Connecting |
Pro-Tip: If flying from Kuala Lumpur, you can choose between KLIA/KLIA2 (KUL) or Subang Airport (SZB). Subang is often closer to the city center and offers a much faster check-in process via Firefly.
Weekly Flight Schedule (Estimated)
Flight times are approximately 1 hour from KL and 1 hour 20 minutes from Singapore.
From Kuala Lumpur: Flights run almost every hour starting from 06:30 AM until 10:00 PM. For a same-day boat transfer to the island, try to land before 12:00 PM.
From Singapore (Direct): Scoot typically operates flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Check their latest schedule as days can vary by season.
From Singapore (Connecting): You can fly any day of the week via a short layover in Kuala Lumpur (KUL) using Malaysia Airlines or AirAsia.
The "Late Arrival" Warning
IMPORTANT: Don’t Get Stranded at the Jetty!
The last public speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty to the islands typically departs between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM.
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If landing at Kota Bharu (KBR): You must land no later than 3:00 PM to clear luggage and make the 1-hour drive to the jetty.
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If you miss the boat: You will need to stay overnight in Kuala Besut town. We recommend booking a room at Samudera Hotel or Hotel Nan near the jetty and taking the first boat at 8:00 AM the next morning.
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Private Boat Option: If you arrive slightly late (before 6:30 PM), you can charter a private boat for approximately RM450 – RM550, depending on the sea conditions.