Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (IATA: KBR, ICAO: WMKC) is an airport located in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

Airport Location

The airport is located at Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

Airport Technical Details

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Flight Schedule (Arrivals)

Flight Schedule (Departures)

History

The airport is located at a former RAF station, RAF Kota Bharu. The former British military airfield is the scene of the first Japanese landing in Malaya on 8 December 1941.

The terminal building currently used was officially opened in September 2002.

Here is a brief history of Kota Bharu Airport:

1. Early Years: The airport was first established in the 1920s by the British colonial administration as an airfield known as Kota Bharu Airfield. It primarily served as a landing ground for small aircraft.
2. World War II: During World War II, the airfield was occupied by the Japanese forces who used it as a military airbase. It was a crucial strategic location during the Japanese occupation of Malaya.
3. Post-War Development: After the war, the airfield underwent reconstruction and expansion to accommodate larger aircraft and meet the growing demand for air travel. In 1949, the airport was officially opened for civilian use.
4. Expansion and Upgrades: Over the years, Kota Bharu Airport underwent several expansion and upgrade projects to enhance its facilities and capacity. These included the construction of a new terminal building, runway extensions, and the installation of modern navigation and communication systems.
5. Renaming: In 2002, the airport was renamed Sultan Ismail Petra Airport to honor Sultan Ismail Petra, the former Sultan of Kelantan, who had passed away in the same year.
6. International Status: Initially serving domestic flights, Kota Bharu Airport was upgraded to an international airport in 2002. It began accommodating international flights, primarily to nearby destinations in Southeast Asia.
7. Recent Developments: In recent years, Kota Bharu Airport has seen ongoing developments to improve its infrastructure and services. These include the expansion of the terminal building, the addition of new boarding gates, and the enhancement of passenger facilities.

Today, Sultan Ismail Petra Airport serves as an important gateway to Kelantan, providing both domestic and international flight connections. It plays a vital role in supporting tourism, business, and transportation in the region.

Nearby places

Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah

Kelantan, located in Malaysia’s northeast region, is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and natural beauty. Here are several interesting places to visit in Kelantan:

1. Kota Bharu: The capital city of Kelantan, Kota Bharu, offers a blend of modern and traditional attractions. Visit the vibrant Central Market (Pasar Siti Khadijah) to experience the local culture and sample traditional food and handicrafts.
2. Istana Jahar: This beautiful wooden palace is a significant cultural landmark in Kota Bharu. It houses the Kelantan Royal Museum, where you can learn about the state’s history, heritage, and royal artifacts.
3. Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB): Also known as Moonlight Beach, PCB is a popular beach destination in Kelantan. It offers a scenic coastline, golden sands, and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, and water sports.
4. Kampung Kraftangan: This craft village showcases traditional Kelantanese handicrafts and cottage industries. You can watch artisans create intricate batik prints, silverware, songket weaving, and more. It’s a great place to purchase unique souvenirs.
5. Gunung Stong State Park: For nature enthusiasts, Gunung Stong State Park is a must-visit. It features the majestic Jelawang Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Southeast Asia. You can also explore the park’s lush rainforests, caves, and wildlife.
6. Wat Phothivihan: Located in Tumpat, Wat Phothivihan is a Thai Buddhist temple famous for its reclining Buddha statue, measuring an impressive 40 meters in length. The temple is a peaceful and serene place for contemplation and photography.
7. Gua Ikan: Gua Ikan, meaning “Fish Cave,” is a limestone cave complex known for its unique rock formations that resemble various marine creatures. Explore the caves and marvel at the natural beauty, stalactites, and stalagmites.
8. Pantai Seri Tujuh: Also called Seven Lagoon Beach, Pantai Seri Tujuh is renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. With its picturesque sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rock formations, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.
9. Museum of Royal Traditions and Customs: Situated in the Istana Balai Besar, this museum showcases the customs and traditions of Kelantan’s royal family. It exhibits royal regalia, ceremonial items, traditional costumes, and historical artifacts.

These are just a few of the many interesting places to explore in Kelantan. The state’s unique cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Additional Links

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Sources

Listed below are the sources for this article:

1. Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – Wikipedia
2. Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – MAHB Website