In August, most of my family have been flying in and out of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. I was in KKIA main terminal last Saturday, and it seems to me that most of the renovation works have been completed. It looks good, except for one thing – the lack of people and passengers at the airport. It is an international airport and the gateway to Sabah, so why does Terminal 2 looks so busy compared to KKIA?
I guess it is partly due to the size of the main terminal since it is much larger than Terminal 2. Most though, I suspect it is because Air Asia is the preferred way to fly. The low fares, fast and efficient service, and the pay as you go type of booking. Now, they assign seats as you check-in which reduces the mass rush to board the aircraft.
Travel Tip 1: Check Your Seat Number When Flying Air Asia
If you are traveling with your family and kids in tow, be sure to check your seat number. On my last flight, I was placed in a different row from my wife and child. Luckily, I managed to exchange seats with a gentleman, so I could be with my family. On the return flight, the same thing happened. Upon checking the boarding pass, I discovered we were in different seats again. Luckily, I managed to get it changed at the check-in counter.
Travel Tip 2: KKIA Terminal 2 not accessible via Terminal 1
This is a big one. Although Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are located in Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), you can’t just hop over to the other terminal. You get to KKIA main terminal via the Putatan Road, and Terminal 2 via Tanjung Aru road. You need to know where the airline you are flying with is operating from. Even for domestic flights, both Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and Air Asia operate flights, and they do so from different locations.
Travel Tip 3: Taxi Fare From KKIA to Kota Kinabalu City
The cost of a taxi cab from KKIA to Kota Kinabalu city is RM30 one way. As you exit the Arrival Hall, you should see a counter where you can buy a ticket for your taxi. The fare from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to the city is the same. Prices are per taxi, up to 3 passengers.
- Terminal 2 Arrival Hall and Baggage Claim
