Kota Kinabalu Airport Runway Temporarily Closed for Repair Work

The runway at Kota Kinabalu International Airport was temporarily closed on September 17 to allow urgent rectification work, with Malaysia Airports advising passengers to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight information. Malay Mail

Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad issued a Notice to Airmen, known as a NOTAM, covering the temporary closure. The airport operator said the runway would reopen after the required safety inspections and clearing work had been completed.

The closure caused delays to some flights operating through the airport, with passengers advised to wait for further instructions from their airlines.

Runway repairs cause flight delays

The airport operator did not initially give details about the problem or state how long the closure would last.

Reports later indicated that repair work involved uneven areas or holes on the runway surface. The runway was reported to have reopened at around 3:05pm after the repairs and safety checks were completed. Delayed flights were then allowed to depart in sequence.

Some passengers had already boarded their aircraft when they were told about the temporary closure and were asked to wait while the work was carried out.

Passengers advised to check flight status

Malaysia Airports has advised passengers travelling through Kota Kinabalu International Airport to check directly with their airline for the latest departure and arrival information.

Flight schedules can change during runway maintenance, particularly when aircraft and passengers have already been processed for departure.

What it means for foreigners in Malaysia

Foreign visitors flying to or from Sabah should check their flight status with their airline before travelling to Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

If your flight has been delayed or rescheduled, follow the airline's instructions rather than relying on the original departure time. The runway closure was temporary, and normal operations resumed after the necessary repair and safety work.

17.09.2026