Direct Flights from Medan to Penang
KNO → PEN · about 50 minutes · 2 carriers
Can you fly direct from Medan to Penang?
Yes. Indonesia AirAsia and Lion Air operate scheduled direct service between Medan (KNO) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time is about 50 minutes. Days and frequency change with airline schedules — check the airline website for current timings before booking.
Medan to Penang is the shortest international hop into the island — about 50 minutes across the Strait of Malacca — and one of the busiest, with Indonesia AirAsia and Lion Air each flying three times a day. Medan is one hour behind Penang, so put your watch forward an hour when you land.
Departure airport: Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), Deli Serdang, North Sumatra
Airlines on the KNO–PEN Route
Indonesia AirAsia
3 flights a day
Flight codes: QZ102–QZ109 series
Also sold under AirAsia (AK) flight numbers.
Lion Air
3 flights a day
Flight codes: JT132–JT139 series
Batik Air
Not currently operatingDaily (as launched)
Batik Air Malaysia launched Medan–Penang on 8 December 2025 but was not operating the route in October 2026 — no Batik Air Medan flights appear in airport records for the week checked.
Route status last checked 6 October 2026. Frequencies are what operated (or was announced) at that date — schedules and fares change frequently, so confirm current days, timings and prices directly with the airline before booking.
Visa & Entry for Indonesia Nationals
Indonesian nationals (ASEAN) enter Malaysia visa-free for short tourist visits. Confirm at imi.gov.my before travelling.
We do not give immigration advice. Confirm everything with imi.gov.my (Imigresen Malaysia) or the nearest Malaysian mission before you travel — rules can change at short notice and individual cases vary.
Arriving at Penang International Airport (PEN)
PEN is in Bayan Lepas on the south of Penang island, about 16km from George Town where most hotels, restaurants and the heritage zone are. The transfer is straightforward:
- Grab (the regional ride-hailing app) to George Town is around RM 25-40 and takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Pricing is shown upfront in the app. Download and register before you fly.
- Rapid Penang 401E airport bus to Komtar in central George Town is RM 2.70. Runs roughly every 30 minutes during the day.
- Metered taxis are available landside. Pay at a coupon counter inside the terminal for a fixed-fare option, or use the meter.
- Immigration at PEN is usually quick — under 20 minutes outside Chinese New Year and school holiday peaks.
See Getting Around Penang for moving around the island once you arrive, and Hotels for accommodation options.
Other Direct Routes Into Penang
Penang has direct service from a growing network of Asian cities. See the full list or jump to a specific origin:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there direct flights from Medan to Penang?
Yes. Indonesia AirAsia and Lion Air operate scheduled direct service between Medan (KNO) and Penang (PEN). Approximate flight time is about 50 minutes. Days and frequency change with airline schedules — check the airline website for current timings before booking.
Where does the flight arrive in Penang?
Penang International Airport (PEN) is in Bayan Lepas, about 16km south of George Town. Grab (the regional ride-hailing app) to the city centre costs roughly RM 25-40 and takes 25-40 minutes. The Rapid Penang 401E airport bus runs to Komtar for RM 2.70.
Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia from Indonesia?
Indonesian nationals (ASEAN) enter Malaysia visa-free for short tourist visits. Confirm at imi.gov.my before travelling. Imigresen Malaysia (imi.gov.my) is the official source of immigration rules. We do not give immigration advice — check before you book.
What is the IATA code for Penang Airport?
PEN. The ICAO code is WMKP. The airport is operated by Malaysia Airports Holdings (MAHB) and handles both international and domestic services.
Can I get a SIM card or money changer at the airport?
Yes. There are several Malaysian mobile providers (Maxis, Celcom, Digi/U Mobile, Yes) with prepaid SIM kiosks landside at PEN, plus moneychangers and ATMs from Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank and RHB. Many travellers prefer to bring a small amount of MYR for the airport transfer and change the rest in George Town where rates are typically better.
Flight schedules, visa rules and fares change regularly. Information on this page is general travel guidance current as at publication — verify with the airline, with imi.gov.my for immigration, and with your bank for currency before you travel.