Flights

Malaysia Airlines flights to Penang, Langkawi and Kota Kinabalu from London: how the connections work

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The short answerFrom London you normally fly direct to Kuala Lumpur and connect onward to Penang, Langkawi or Kota Kinabalu on a short domestic flight. Booking it as one journey can check your bags through and give you protection if the first flight is late. Leave several hours between flights, and keep your passport handy for Sabah and Sarawak.
An aerial view of Langkawi island
Photo: Lexi G / Pexels
In this guide
  1. Step 1: Look for a single booking
  2. Step 2: Leave enough time
  3. Step 3: Check baggage on the domestic leg
  4. Step 4: Plan the first night
  5. Prefer to stop in Kuala Lumpur first?

The classic Malaysia route is one long flight, then a short hop. Here is how to make the connection smooth.

DestinationOnward flight from Kuala Lumpur
PenangAbout 1 hour
LangkawiAbout 1 hour
Kota KinabaluAbout 2.5 hours

1Look for a single booking

Search for your final destination, not just Kuala Lumpur. A single booking can mean one baggage check-in and protection if the first flight is delayed. Check how the airline's site handles onward journeys from your date.

2Leave enough time

After 13 hours in the air, immigration and baggage can take time. Allow generous time for the connection and more if you are on separate tickets.

A mother carrying her child with a suitcase in a bright corridor
Photo: Gustavo Fring / Pexels

3Check baggage on the domestic leg

Allowances can differ on domestic flights. Check your booking. See baggage allowance and fare types.

4Plan the first night

If you arrive late at your final destination, book a hotel. See where to stay in Penang, Langkawi and Kota Kinabalu.

Prefer to stop in Kuala Lumpur first?

A night or two in Kuala Lumpur helps you recover before the next leg. See 3 days in Kuala Lumpur.

Fares, rules and schedules change. Check your booking and the airline before you travel.

This guide is part of our complete Malaysia travel guide for UK visitors. See all flights & airports guides.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly from London to Langkawi with one booking?

Often you can search for it as a connection via Kuala Lumpur. Check the booking options for your date.

How long should I leave between flights in Kuala Lumpur?

Leave generous time for immigration and baggage, and more if you are on separate tickets.

Do I need my passport for Kota Kinabalu?

Yes, Sabah has its own immigration check, so keep your passport with you.

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