Penang International Airport or Bayan Lepas Airport (PEN)

About Penang International Airport (PEN)

Penang International Airport is the main airport serving the island state of Penang on the northwest coast of Malaysia. Located in Bayan Lepas, about 16 kilometres south of George Town, it is operated by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad and connects Penang to domestic destinations across Malaysia as well as international routes across Asia and the Middle East. The airport is the gateway to one of Southeast Asia's most celebrated food, culture, and heritage destinations.

Bayan Lepas Airport Details - Penang International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Penang International Airport
• IATA Code: PEN
• Address: Bayan Lepas, 11900 Penang, Malaysia
• Airport Pin Code: 11900
• Distance from George Town City Centre: Approximately 16 km south
• Phone Number: +604 250 5000
• Old Name: Bayan Lepas Airport

How Many Airports in Penang?

Penang is served by one commercial airport: Penang International Airport (PEN) in Bayan Lepas. There are no other passenger airports on the island. Travellers needing more flight options occasionally use Langkawi International Airport or Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, both accessible from Penang by road or ferry.

How Many Terminals in Penang Airport?

Penang International Airport has a single main terminal with separate domestic and international wings, each with dedicated check-in, immigration, and boarding gates. A satellite building connected via an airbridge provides additional gate capacity for international flights. The layout is compact and easy to navigate.

Distance Between Penang Airport Terminals

Penang International Airport has a single connected terminal, so no inter-terminal transport is needed. The domestic and international wings are within the same structure, and the satellite building connects directly via an airbridge. All areas are accessible on foot.

How Many Runways in Penang Airport?

Penang International Airport has one runway designated 04/22, stretching approximately 3,352 metres and capable of handling wide-body aircraft including the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The single runway efficiently meets current traffic demands, with ongoing infrastructure upgrades planned to support projected passenger and cargo growth.

Visa and Immigration for Penang Airport

Indian passport holders travelling to Penang benefit from a straightforward visa arrangement. Malaysia offers visa-free entry to Indian nationals for stays of up to 30 days under its eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration and Information) scheme, which requires prior online registration before travel. This facility makes Penang a particularly easy destination for Indian tourists without the need for a full visa application.

For stays beyond 30 days or for purposes other than tourism, Indian nationals will need to apply for a Malaysian visa through the nearest Malaysian High Commission or consulate in India, with offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. The eVisa option is also available through the Malaysia Immigration Department's official portal for eligible travellers. Documents typically required include a valid passport, return tickets, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for the stay.

Indian nationals using the eNTRI facility must complete online registration at least 12 hours before departure. Immigration at Penang airport is generally efficient given its manageable volumes. Keep your eNTRI confirmation or visa documents accessible upon arrival.

Penang Airport Lounges and Facilities

Penang International Airport has a Plaza Premium Lounge accessible to business class passengers and Priority Pass, DragonPass, and other eligible membership holders. General facilities include free Wi-Fi, duty-free and retail shops, currency exchange, ATMs, cafes and restaurants serving local Penang and international food, a prayer room, and baby care facilities.

Things to Do in Penang Airport

The duty-free zone stocks chocolates, local snacks, batik products, and electronics. Food outlets serve Penang specialities including char kway teow, nasi lemak, and local coffee, a last chance to enjoy the island's celebrated food culture. Free Wi-Fi is reliable throughout, and the compact layout means most travellers move through security quickly.

Places to Visit Near Penang Airport

George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage city famed for its street art, heritage shophouses, and hawker food scene, is about 16 km north and reachable by taxi or Grab in around 30 minutes. Batu Ferringhi beach is about 30 km from the airport. Penang Hill, offering panoramic views of the island and the mainland, is roughly 20 km away. Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, is about 12 km from the airport.

FAQs About Penang Airport - Penang International Airport

What is the Official Name of Penang Airport?

The official name is Penang International Airport. It was previously known as Bayan Lepas Airport before being redeveloped and rebranded as an international facility.

What is the IATA Code for Penang International Airport?

The IATA code is PEN.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Penang Airport?

Penang International Airport operates a single terminal with separate domestic and international wings. Domestic flights and international flights are handled within the same building, with dedicated check-in, immigration, and gate areas for each.

Where is Penang Airport Located?

The airport is in Bayan Lepas, approximately 16 km south of George Town, the capital of Penang state in Malaysia.

When Was Penang Airport Built?

Penang's first airport opened in 1935 during the British colonial period. The current Penang International Airport was developed from this earlier facility and has undergone several expansions and modernisation projects, with significant upgrades completed in recent decades.

Is PEN Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Penang International Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, supporting both scheduled domestic and international flights as well as cargo operations throughout the day and night.

How Far is Penang International Airport from George Town City Center?

The airport is approximately 16 km from George Town city centre. A taxi or Grab ride takes around 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. The Rapid Penang bus service also connects the airport to various parts of the island at a lower cost.

What Airlines Operate from PEN?

AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines are the primary carriers at Penang International Airport. Other airlines operating from PEN include Batik Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Scoot, Cathay Pacific, and several regional carriers connecting Penang to destinations across Southeast and East Asia.

Are There Lounges at Penang Airport?

Yes. The Plaza Premium Lounge is accessible to business class passengers and Priority Pass and DragonPass members, offering food, beverages, and Wi-Fi before departure.