Singapore to Penang Flights: Airlines, Prices, and Travel Tips (2025 Guide)

When you live in Singapore, Penang feels like one of those perfect weekend escapes that’s close enough to be convenient yet different enough to feel like an adventure. I’ve made the trip myself, and it always surprises me how quickly you can swap the skyscrapers of Singapore for the heritage streets and food paradise of George Town. The flight is short, the options are plenty, and the prices can be surprisingly affordable if you know when and how to book. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about flying from Singapore to Penang in 2025 – from flight times and airlines to ticket prices and a few travel tips that can save you money.

How Long Is the Flight from Singapore to Penang?

A direct flight takes about 1 hour and 15 to 30 minutes, which is just enough time to settle into your seat before the pilot is already preparing for landing. It almost feels like hopping between two neighborhoods, except one greets you with Penang’s colonial shophouses and beaches.

Most flights leave from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and arrive at Penang International Airport (PEN), located about 30 minutes from George Town. If you choose a connecting flight, the journey can stretch to 4 – 6 hours, but honestly, with so many direct options available, it rarely makes sense to add extra travel time.

Airlines Flying from Singapore to Penang in 2025

Photo I took while seated inside a Singapore Airlines plane at Changi Airport, looking out at the aircraft lined up for flights to Penang.

Trust me when I say flying from Singapore to Penang is one of the easiest routes in Southeast Asia because several airlines cover it daily. Here are your main options:

• Singapore Airlines: If you’re looking for comfort and reliability, Singapore Airlines is always a safe bet. Their service is top-notch, and you get a bit more legroom and perks like meals included. On my recent trip to Penang from SG, I used this one.
• Scoot: For budget travelers, Scoot is the most popular choice. I’ve taken Scoot on this route before, and while it’s no-frills, it’s usually the cheapest way to get to Penang.
• AirAsia: Another strong budget contender, often with competitive prices. If you don’t mind flying out of Changi’s Budget Terminal experience, this is a solid option.
• Malaysia Airlines: Great if you prefer a full-service airline without the Singapore Airlines price tag.
• Batik Air: A mid-range choice that offers decent service and comfort for the short hop.

With all these options, you’ll find multiple flights every day, from early morning departures to late-night hops. That flexibility makes it easy to fit Penang into a long weekend or even a quick food getaway.

How Much Do Singapore to Penang Flights Cost?

The good news is, flying from SG to Penang is not expensive compared to many other international routes. On average, a round-trip ticket can cost anywhere between SGD 120 and SGD 250. Budget airlines like Scoot and AirAsia often have flash deals that drop fares even lower, sometimes under SGD 100 return if you book at the right time.

Full-service carriers such as Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines will usually sit at the higher end of that range, but they include meals and checked luggage. Furthermore, they tend to offer a smoother overall experience.

Tips for Scoring Cheaper Flights

• Book early since prices naturally tend to climb closer to the departure date.
• Fly mid-week. I notice that Tuesday and Wednesday flights are often cheaper than weekends.
• Avoid peak seasons. School holidays and festive periods like Chinese New Year or Hari Raya push prices up fast.
• Sign up for alerts. This is one of the smartest ways to grab cheaper flights. Scoot, AirAsia, and even Singapore Airlines often run promotions, so being on their mailing list can help you catch deals before they sell out.

For me, I’ve noticed that booking about 6 to 8 weeks in advance often gets the sweet spot between price and availability.

Alternatives to Flying from Singapore to Penang

While flying is by far the fastest way to reach Penang, some travelers still look into land and sea routes – especially if their goal is to experience a more scenic journey or to save a little money.

• Bus – You can take a long-distance bus from Singapore to Penang, but be prepared for a ride that takes around 9 to 10 hours. It’s overnight-friendly if you don’t mind sleeping on the bus.
• Train – The train isn’t as straightforward. You’ll need to travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru, then take a train up to Butterworth, and finally hop on a ferry to Penang. It’s slow, but some people enjoy the old-school experience.
• Driving – If you’re up for a road trip, you can drive from Singapore to Penang in about 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and border crossings. This option is popular with families or groups who want the flexibility to stop along the way.

These alternatives can be fun if you’re chasing the journey rather than the destination, but honestly, with so many affordable flights every day, most people prefer to just fly and save the extra time for Penang itself.

Travel Tips for Visiting Penang

I captured this view from my seat on the way to Penang, shortly after leaving Singapore, with the blue waters and winding rivers below.

Every trip is smoother when you know a few insider tips. These are some things I’ve learned along the way that can make your Penang getaway even better.

Getting from the airport to George Town

Penang International Airport (PEN) is about 30 minutes from George Town. You can grab a Grab ride (the local version of Uber) or take a traditional taxi. You can also hop on the airport bus if you’re on a budget.

Best time to visit

Penang is hot and humid all year, but the dry season from December to March is the most comfortable. If you enjoy festivals, the George Town Festival in August is an incredible time to visit, but book flights early as prices go up.

Pack light

If you’re flying on Scoot or AirAsia, remember that budget tickets don’t include checked luggage by default. Adding baggage later can cost more, so decide in advance.

Money tips

Singaporean credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry some Malaysian Ringgit for small shops and taxis.

Stay in George Town

If it’s your first time, I strongly recommend staying in George Town itself. That’s where the food and street life really come alive, and you can walk almost everywhere.