Psst … we’re about to share a lesser-known way to visit our neighbour without getting stuck in causeway traffic jams or having to face massive crowds at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
Sure, most of us know that Seletar Aerospace Park is where you go to see cool private planes. But apart from these chartered flights, there is also a commercial airline that flies to KL – to Subang specifically, which is only 30 minutes away from KL City Centre.
So, for those who value their time above all else, here’s a guide to flying to KL from Seletar Airport.
Yep, there’s no hassle of comparing airlines here – it’s just Firefly that flies from Singapore to KL when you go from Seletar Airport. The commercial flight takes 80 minutes to reach Subang Airport, with the earliest flight departing at 8.30am and the last flight taking off at 7pm daily.
Well, the carrier has cheaper air fares compared to other full-fledged airlines such as Malaysian Airlines (from $204) and Singapore Airlines (from $280).
When you compare it with other budget airlines, however, it is ever so slightly more expensive. Firefly airfares are from $155 for a round trip. The fare includes 7kg carry-on luggage and 10kg checked baggage, which is usually an add-on for other budget airlines.
While we are all huge fans of Changi Airport and are happy to go 2 hours in advance to roam around or make use of the airport lounges, at Seletar Airport you are only required to show up an hour before your Firefly flight.
Checking in is fast and distances between the counters and the security as well as boarding gates are very short too; you’ll be in the waiting area in no time.
Keep your expectations in check at this humble little airport. If you’re looking to grab a bite or drink before boarding your flight, the only option is a Teh Tarik Express that opens daily from 7.30am-7pm.
And while there’s no duty-free shopping, you can use the free airport Wi-Fi to download your Netflix shows to watch en route. You can also charge your devices at the dedicated charging stations before boarding your plane.
To stretch your legs before your flight, you can take a walk around the landscape garden accessible from the departure area. Other than that, there’s one money changer with rates that are on the higher side so we suggest changing your money beforehand.
Pro tip: Carry an empty water bottle to refill at the water fountains that can be found after you’ve cleared the security screening.
If you’ve never flown on one of the smaller aircraft or propeller planes before, you might be in for a surprise. The experience is slightly different from flying on the larger aircraft that departs from Changi Airport, starting from the boarding of the plane – there’s no aerobridge to guide you to the plane. Rather, you’ll have to make a short walk to the plane on foot and climb a couple of stairs to get on board.
Flyers with special needs such as those with limited mobility and wheelchair-bound passengers will still be able to go on Firefly planes as long as they are able to climb the boarding stairs unaided or with the aid of a carer. Unfortunately, the airline is unable to take on wheelchair-bound passengers with completely no mobility.
During the short flight, you’ll get some light refreshments such as cookies and peanuts as well as the choice of juice or a hot beverage.
Those with flying sensitivities such as the fear of turbulence might also want to take note that you’re in for a bumpier ride on smaller planes such as the ones used by Firefly. Distract yourself by watching a show on your phone, reading a book, or staring out the window at the beautiful landscape along the way.
After 2 episodes of whatever you’re watching, you’ll land at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB), often known simply as Subang Airport. Since there are limited flights at this smaller airport, the immigration process is much faster. On average passengers say it takes only 20 minutes as opposed to an hour you might spend standing in the queue at KLIA.
Just FYI, if you want to travel elsewhere within Malaysia, you can take a domestic flight from Subang Airport to fly to Penang, Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi, and Kuching.
It takes half the time to get to KL City Centre from SZB compared to KLIA so if you can’t wait to see the Twin Towers, you can call for a Grab as soon as you clear immigration and you’ll reach within 30 minutes.
After a few days of fun in Malaysia, when you’re ready to head back home, make your way back to Subang Airport at least 90 minutes before your flight. As per the standard practice, the boarding gate will close 30 minutes before the flight is set to take off, so give yourself enough time to check in and get past security.
Just like Seletar Airport, the process here is faster than usual and would take a lot less time than if you were flying back from KLIA. There are up to 8 Firefly flights a day from Subang Airport to Seletar Airport.
Roaming around Subang Airport is not too different from roaming around a small Malaysian shopping mall. There are plenty of F&B establishments including familiar names such as Toast Box, Burger King, KFC, and Starbucks. Just be wary that they close rather early, around 8pm.
There are also a number of duty-free shops and retail stores selling souvenirs should you need to pick up something for friends and family at the last minute.
If you’d rather take it easy and relax before your flight, there are 2 options to choose from. Either go for a foot massage at Best Friends Reflexology or make your way to the Sky Lounge. Even those travelling in Economy class can purchase a day pass at RM35/pax (~S$10.02) to access the lounge and its facilities.
Clearing immigration at Seletar Airport is as seamless as the process that takes place at Changi Airport. For residents, simply scan your passport at the security clearance, collect your baggage, and walk towards the arrival pick-up point.
Just be prepared to wait slightly longer than usual when booking a taxi or any of the other ride-sharing services as there are fewer drivers in the area. The other public transport option is taking bus 102 which goes towards Hougang Central Interchange.
If you find it more convenient to drive, you can leave your vehicle in the car park for the duration that you are away for $20/day.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get to KL, make your booking for a flight via Seletar Airport.
Not only do you save time travelling to and fro, you also avoid huge crowds that are becoming a norm at KLIA and the JB checkpoints. Catching sight of private planes is just an added bonus.
Seletar Airport
Address: 21 Seletar Aerospace Road, Singapore 797405
Contact: 6595 6868 | Seletar Airport website
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport
Address: Lapangan Terbang Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, 47200 Subang, Selangor, Malaysia
Contact: +60 3-7845 1717 | Subang SkyPark website
If you’re looking for guides on KL, check out:
Cover image adapted from: KLIA
Photography by Bryan Choo.
Originally published on 30th December 2022. Last updated by Samantha Nguyen on 29th November 2023.
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