Golden-hour view of Sandakan Airport's modern glass terminal in Sabah, Malaysia, framed by tropical palms and rainforest hills.

Airport

Sandakan Airport (SDK)

Sandakan Airport is the main gateway to Sandakan and Sabah's wildlife-rich east coast. Compare transfer options to the city centre, Sepilok, the Kinabatangan River area and other nearby destinations, and plan your journey with ease.

Passengers

Luggage

About Sandakan Airport

Sandakan Airport is the main domestic airport serving Sandakan and the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia. It connects the city and surrounding districts to Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Tawau and Lahad Datu, making it an important gateway for visitors heading to wildlife destinations such as Sepilok and the Kinabatangan River area.

The site's history dates back to the Second World War, when it was developed for military use and officially established in December 1942. It was later rebuilt for civil aviation and upgraded over the years, including a 2014 terminal expansion that increased the building to around 12,500 m².

Located at Batu 7 along Jalan Lapangan Terbang, the airport lies about 14 km from central Sandakan. Travellers can continue to the city and surrounding areas by taxi, bus, rideshare services, private transfers and rental cars.

With a compact single terminal offering shops, dining, lounges and onward transport options, the airport functions as a convenient base for exploring Sandakan's coastal, wildlife and conservation attractions.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Sandakan Airport operates passenger services through a single terminal on one level, handling both departures and arrivals. Expanded in 2014 to about 12,500 m², the terminal primarily serves domestic flights to destinations including Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Tawau and Lahad Datu.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Sandakan Airport

Transfers

Book private transfers from Sandakan Airport to hotels, the city centre, Sepilok and other destinations across the Sandakan area.

Hourly Chauffeur

Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from the airport, business meetings, tours or journeys around Sandakan and eastern Sabah.

Car Rental

Rent a car from Sandakan Airport for independent travel around Sandakan and onward journeys to nearby wildlife and coastal destinations.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organise minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Sandakan Airport, hotels, event venues and other destinations in the region.