Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is a major transportation hub in Malaysia, serving millions of passengers annually. For travelers seeking a convenient and efficient way to reach the airport from the city center (or vice versa), the KLIA Ekspres train is an excellent choice. This high-speed rail service offers a comfortable and time-saving journey, connecting Kuala Lumpur Sentral station to KLIA Terminal 1 (T1) and KLIA Terminal 2 (T2). In this review, I will share my experience using the KLIA Ekspres train service and valuable tips to enhance your travel experience, including how to save money when purchasing tickets.
Introducing the KLIA Ekspres
KLIA Ekspres is a premier non-stop train service that connects Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 with KL Sentral, the city’s main transportation hub. Launched in 2002, this high-speed rail link offers travelers a swift and efficient means of transportation, covering the 57 km distance in just 28 minutes. Operating at speeds of up to 160 km/h, the airport train service is designed to cater to the needs of air travelers, providing a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
KLIA Ekspres vs KLIA Transit
The KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit are both essential rail services connecting Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) to the city center at KL Sentral, but they cater to different travel needs.
KLIA Ekspres: This service operates as a non-stop train, providing a direct connection from KL Sentral to both KLIA Terminal 1 and KLIA Terminal 2. It skips all intermediate stops, making it the fastest option for travelers.
KLIA Transit: In contrast, the KLIA Transit makes three additional stops along its route, namely Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya & Cyberjaya, and Salak Tinggi. This makes it a more versatile option for passengers needing access to these areas.
Travel Time and Frequency
The journey from Kuala Lumpur Sentral to KLIA T1 and KLIA T2 on the KLIA Ekspres train takes 28 and 33 minutes respectively, making it a significantly faster option compared to other modes of transportation such as taxis or buses. The train operates on a reasonably frequent schedule, with departures every 20 minutes during operating hours from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM local time. This ensures that passengers can easily plan their travel itinerary without worrying about long waiting times.
For comparison, a car journey from KL Sentral to KLIA on a Wednesday evening can take nearly 1.5 hours.
Comfort and Amenities
I’ve had the pleasure of riding the KLIA Ekspres train several times and I’ve always found it to be clean, modern, and well-maintained. The seats are spacious and well-padded, offering ample legroom for passengers. The air conditioning system maintains a pleasant temperature throughout the journey, ensuring that passengers stay cool and comfortable.
The KLIA Ekspres train offers ample storage for passengers with luggage. Overhead racks for light luggage and dedicated racks for larger ones.
The train also provides digital infotainment screens to keep passengers entertained throughout the journey.
The train features a Priority Seating zone at the rear offering wider seats, more legroom and enhanced comfort.
During my last trip, I was able to try out the priority seats, which were slightly wider and more luxurious than the standard seats due to the leather padding. I also enjoyed the generous legroom.
Tip: If unoccupied, Priority Section seats can be used by any passenger after the train departs.
The KLIA Ekspres train offers high-speed Wi-Fi, courtesy of Yes, a communications provider who is part of YTL Corporation Berhad, the joint owner of Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL), the company that operates the KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit train services.
Where to find KLIA Ekspres Stations
KL Sentral
The KLIA Express departure station is conveniently located in KL Sentral, which is easily accessible using various public transportation options, e.g. LRT, KTM, Monorail. The Klang Valley Integrated Transit Map provides a one-page view of the routes to and from KL Sentral using various transportation services within the city.
Upon arriving in KL Sentral, look for wayfinding signage to KLIA Ekspres Departure Hall, which sits in the corner of KL Sentral right next to the escalators heading up to Nu Sentral Mall.
Scan the QR code provided with the KLIA Ekspres ticket at the gantry gates to access the train boarding area located one floor below.
Tip: You can check in for your flight and drop your luggage(s) at the Flight Check-in and Baggage Drop facility at KL Sentral before boarding the KLIA Ekspres train to the airport. Currently, this service is only available to passengers on Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air and Cathay Pacific flights.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1
At Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1, the KLIA Ekspres station is located right at the airport terminal, making it easy to access upon arrival. After exiting immigration and customs at KLIA Terminal 1, turn right and take the lift (or elevator) down to Level 1, where you will find the KLIA Ekspres gantry gates on your right.
Buying KLIA Ekspres Tickets
KLIA Ekspres one-way adult tickets cost MYR 55.00, while children aged 6-15 pay MYR 25.00. Return tickets are MYR 100.00 for adults and MYR 45.00 for children. Children below 6 years old travel for free. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines located in KL Sentral and KLIA or online. One-way KLIA Ekspres tickets are flexible. You can use them to travel from KL Sentral to either KLIA T1 or KLIA T2, or in the opposite direction.
Tip: I usually purchase my KLIA Ekspres tickets on Klook, as they offer better prices and reward me with credits that can be used for future purchases on Klook. If you’re new to Klook, use my referral link for an extra discount on your first booking.
If you’re unfamiliar with Klook, it’s an online activity booking platform that offers a wide range of experiences and attractions in many countries worldwide at affordable prices. Here are some travel related services and products that you can book on Klook:
Overall Experience
After several trips on the KLIA Ekspres, I believe it’s an excellent option for travelers looking for a convenient, efficient and comfortable way to travel between Kuala Lumpur Sentral and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. With its fast travel times, modern facilities and reliable service, the KLIA Ekspres is a top choice for both domestic and international travelers. Plus, the train service helps reduce traffic congestion, making it a sustainable transportation option.
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