Quick Answer
The best way from Butterworth to Penang Airport is by taxi or Grab. It takes 30–45 minutes via the Penang Bridge and costs RM40–60 ($9–13 USD) – the fastest and most comfortable option. For budget travellers, public bus CT14 costs only RM5–8 ($1.10–1.80) but takes 60–90 minutes. The ferry + bus combo is a scenic alternative at RM5–7 ($1.10–1.60), taking about 1.5–2 hours. There is no direct train or flight from Butterworth to the airport.
Train & ETS: Butterworth to Penang Airport (Multi-Modal)
There is no direct train service from Butterworth to Penang Airport. However, Butterworth Railway Station is a major hub for ETS (Electric Train Service) connecting to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and other cities. The station is located just 2 km from the Butterworth ferry terminal. Below we explain how you can use the train as part of a multi-modal journey, plus the option of taking the ETS to KL and then flying back to Penang Airport – a scenic but longer alternative.
Option 1: ETS + Taxi/Bus to Airport (Most Practical)
If you arrive at Butterworth by ETS from KL, Ipoh, or other cities and need to reach Penang Airport:
- Step 1: Alight at Butterworth Railway Station (Stesen Keretapi Butterworth).
- Step 2: Take a taxi or Grab directly to Penang Airport – 30–40 minutes, RM40–55.
- Step 3: Alternatively, walk 15 minutes to Butterworth Bus Terminal and take bus CT14 to the airport – 60–90 minutes, RM5–8.
Total time from Butterworth station to airport: 35–90 minutes depending on mode. Cost: RM5–55.
Option 2: ETS to KL + Fly Back to Penang Airport (Scenic Detour)
For travellers who want to experience both the ETS and a domestic flight, you can take the train from Butterworth to Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral), then fly back to Penang Airport. This is not recommended for time or cost efficiency, but it can be a fun multi-city adventure.
| Segment | Mode | Time | Cost (RM) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butterworth → KL Sentral | ETS (Platinum/Gold) | 3h 50min – 4h 20min | RM95–145 | $21–32 |
| KL Sentral → KLIA | KLIA Transit / Taxi | 30–60 min | RM15–70 | $3–15 |
| KLIA → Penang Airport (PEN) | Domestic flight (AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines) | 1h 10min | RM80–250 | $17–54 |
| Total | — | 5.5–7.5 hours | RM190–465 | $41–101 |
Verdict: This option is only worth considering if you plan to spend time in KL along the way. Otherwise, a direct taxi or bus from Butterworth is far more practical.
ETS Train Types & Seat Classes
- ETS Platinum – Fastest, fewer stops, 3h 50min Butterworth → KL. From RM115.
- ETS Gold – More stops, 4h 20min. From RM95.
- Seat classes: Standard (2+2 seats) and Business (1+2 seats, wider legroom).
- Luggage: No dedicated luggage car; large bags stored at carriage ends. Tip: Use Takkyubin luggage delivery for heavy bags.
Source: KTMB official site – ETS schedule and fares.
Domestic Flights from Penang Airport (PEN) – Beyond Butterworth
Butterworth does not have a commercial airport, so there is no direct flight from Butterworth to Penang Airport. However, once you reach Penang Airport, you can connect to numerous domestic destinations. This section covers domestic flight options from PEN and the multi-modal strategy of taking the train to KL and then flying back to PEN (as detailed above).
Key Domestic Routes from Penang Airport
- Kuala Lumpur (KUL/KLIA) – AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air. Flight time: 1h 10min. Frequency: ~30 flights/day. From RM80 one-way.
- Johor Bahru (JHB) – Firefly, AirAsia. Flight time: 1h 25min. From RM100.
- Kota Kinabalu (BKI) – AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines. Flight time: 2h 50min. From RM160.
- Kuching (KCH) – AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines. Flight time: 2h 30min. From RM140.
- Langkawi (LGK) – AirAsia, Firefly. Flight time: 50min. From RM70.
- Subang (SZB) – Firefly (turboprop), 1h 05min. From RM90.
Total Travel Time: Butterworth → Penang Airport → Domestic Destination
If your final destination is not Penang Island but another Malaysian city, here is the realistic end-to-end timing:
| Route | Butterworth → PEN (taxi) | Check-in & buffer at PEN | Flight time | Total time | Total cost (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butterworth → KLIA | 40 min | 60 min | 1h 10min | ~3h 10min | RM150–300 |
| Butterworth → Kuching | 40 min | 60 min | 2h 30min | ~4h 30min | RM200–380 |
| Butterworth → Langkawi | 40 min | 45 min | 50 min | ~2h 30min | RM130–250 |
Airlines Operating at Penang Airport
- AirAsia – Low-cost, most domestic routes. Book via airasia.com.
- Firefly – Regional turboprop and jet services. firefly.com.
- Malaysia Airlines – Full-service, premium cabins. malaysiaairlines.com.
- Batik Air – Hybrid carrier. batikair.com.
Source: Penang Airport official website – flight schedules.
Bus & Coach: Budget-Friendly Travel from Butterworth to Penang Airport
Public buses are the most economical way to get from Butterworth to Penang Airport. The route is operated by Rapid Penang and covers the journey via the Penang Bridge. There are daytime services only – no dedicated night bus – so plan accordingly.
Route CT14: Butterworth Bus Terminal – Penang Airport
- Operator: Rapid Penang (BESTAS).
- Boarding point: Butterworth Bus Terminal (next to the ferry terminal).
- Drop-off: Penang Airport (PEN) – bus stop directly outside the arrival hall.
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.
- Journey time: 60–90 minutes (depending on traffic).
- Fare: RM5–8 ($1.10–1.80) – exact cash or Rapid Penang card.
- Luggage: No dedicated luggage compartment; large bags may be refused during peak times.
Step-by-Step: How to Take the Bus
- Walk from Butterworth Railway Station or Ferry Terminal to Butterworth Bus Terminal (5–10 min).
- Look for bus CT14 (direction: "Airport – Bayan Lepas"). Ask the driver if unsure.
- Board and pay cash (exact change required) or tap your Rapid Penang card.
- The bus crosses the Penang Bridge (15 min scenic view).
- Alight at "Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Pulau Pinang" stop – the airport entrance.
Comparison: Day Bus vs. Night Options
| Option | Time | Cost (RM) | Availability | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CT14 Day Bus | 60–90 min | RM5–8 | 6 AM – 10 PM | Basic, no AC sometimes |
| Grab / Taxi (Night) | 30–45 min | RM45–65 | 24/7 | High, private car |
| Ferry + Night Bus? | ~2h | RM5–7 | Ferry until 8:30 PM | Low–medium |
Important: After 10 PM, the CT14 stops running. For late-night arrivals or early-morning departures, you must take a taxi or Grab. There is no night bus service on this route.
Other Bus Routes: 401, 401E, 102
These routes run from George Town (Pengkalan Weld / Komtar) to the airport. To use them from Butterworth, first take the ferry (RM1.20) to George Town, then board bus 401, 401E, or 102 from the ferry terminal. Total time: 1.5–2h. Total cost: RM5–7.
Source: Rapid Penang official site – route maps and schedules.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Fastest Door-to-Door Option
Taking a taxi or Grab from Butterworth to Penang Airport is the fastest, most convenient, and most recommended way for most travellers. It is especially ideal for those with heavy luggage, families, groups, or late-night/early-morning flights.
Price Breakdown & Comparison
| Service | Estimated Fare (RM) | Estimated Fare (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GrabCar (standard) | RM40–55 | $9–12 | Best value; book via app |
| Street-hailed taxi (metered) | RM45–60 | $10–13 | May be higher at night |
| GrabCar XL (6-seater) | RM60–85 | $13–18 | Good for groups + luggage |
| Pre-booked airport transfer | RM70–100 | $15–22 | Fixed price, meet & greet |
| Taxi from Butterworth Railway Station | RM45–60 | $10–13 | Queue at station |
When to Choose Taxi / Private Transfer
- Late-night / early-morning flights (after 10 PM or before 6 AM) – no bus service.
- Heavy or bulky luggage – multiple suitcases, sports equipment, etc.
- Families with young children – car seats available on request (GrabFamily).
- Groups of 3–5 – cost per person becomes comparable to bus.
- Business travellers – time efficiency and comfort.
- Bad weather – heavy rain makes waiting for the bus unpleasant.
How to Book
- Grab app – Download and pay by card or cash. Most reliable option in Penang.
- Airport transfer services – Pre-book via Klook or Booking.com for fixed price.
- Taxi stand – Available at Butterworth Railway Station and ferry terminal. Agree on fare before boarding.
Warning: Street-hailed taxis may quote higher prices for airport runs. Always ask for "by meter" or negotiate a fixed price beforehand. Grab is almost always cheaper and more transparent.
Source: Grab Malaysia official site – fare estimates.
Cost & Ticket Comparison: All Transport Modes
Use the table below to quickly compare time, cost, comfort, and convenience of every option from Butterworth to Penang Airport.
| Mode | Time | Cost (RM) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Grab | 30–45 min | RM40–60 | $9–13 | 0 | Speed, comfort, luggage |
| Public Bus CT14 | 60–90 min | RM5–8 | $1.10–1.80 | 0 | Budget travel |
| Ferry + Bus 401/102 | 1.5–2 h | RM5–7 | $1.10–1.60 | 1 (ferry → bus) | Scenic, cheap |
| ETS + Taxi (from station) | 35–90 min | RM45–55 | $10–12 | 1 (train → taxi) | Rail travellers |
| ETS + Flight (KL detour) | 5.5–7.5 h | RM190–465 | $41–101 | Multiple | Multi-city adventure |
| Pre-booked airport transfer | 30–45 min | RM70–100 | $15–22 | 0 | Fixed price, peace of mind |
Summary
- Best overall: Taxi / Grab – balance of speed, cost, and comfort.
- Cheapest: Public Bus CT14 – RM5–8, no transfers.
- Most scenic: Ferry + Bus – enjoy the sea view and George Town.
- Most expensive: ETS + Flight detour – only for travellers wanting to visit KL.
Ticket purchase tips:
- Bus: Pay cash (exact change) or use Rapid Penang card. Available at 7-Eleven or online.
- Ferry: Buy token at counter (RM1.20).
- ETS: Book via KTMB website or app. Advance booking recommended for Platinum class.
- Flights: Compare on Skyscanner or airline sites.
- Grab: Download the app and link a credit card for easy payment.
Traveler Tips & Experience: Getting from Butterworth to Penang Airport Like a Pro
Based on frequent traveller feedback and local knowledge, here are practical tips to make your journey smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
Luggage & Baggage
- Takkyubin (Airport luggage delivery) – Available at Butterworth Railway Station. Send your bulky bags directly to Penang Airport for pickup. Costs around RM35–50 per bag. Saves you from dragging suitcases onto the bus or train. Takkyubin Malaysia.
- Bus luggage limit: CT14 buses have no cargo hold. Only small backpacks and one medium suitcase per person are allowed. Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) if you have large bags.
- Taxi tip: If you have more than 2 large suitcases, book a GrabCar XL to avoid luggage surcharges.
Timing & Traffic
- Peak hours: Penang Bridge is congested from 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM (Mon–Fri). Add 15–25 minutes to your journey during these times.
- Public holidays & long weekends: The bridge can be backed up for over an hour. Plan accordingly.
- School holidays: Penang Airport gets busy; arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights.
Navigating Butterworth Station & Ferry Terminal
- Butterworth Railway Station is well signposted. Luggage storage lockers are available (RM10–15 per day).
- Ferry terminal is a 10-minute walk from the railway station. Follow the covered walkway.
- Bus terminal is adjacent to the ferry terminal. Look for the CT14 bus bay (Bay 7).
- ATM and money changers are available at the ferry terminal and inside the railway station.
Best for Different Traveller Types
- Solo budget backpacker: CT14 bus – RM5–8, straightforward.
- Couple with carry-on luggage: Grab – RM45–55, fast and romantic.
- Family with kids: GrabXL or pre-booked transfer – RM70–100, car seats possible.
- Business traveller: Airport transfer or Grab – time is money.
- Adventure traveller: Ferry + bus – scenic and local experience.
What to Avoid
- Don't rely on the CT14 bus after 9:30 PM – the last bus may come early.
- Don't accept "fixed price" taxis from drivers at the railway station without checking Grab first.
- Don't forget to validate your Rapid Penang card if using one – tap on and off.
- Don't assume the ferry operates 24/7 – last ferry from Butterworth to George Town is around 8:30 PM.
Source: Penang State Government official site – transport advice.
FAQs: Butterworth to Penang Airport – Your Questions Answered
1. Is there a direct train from Butterworth to Penang Airport?
No, there is no direct train from Butterworth to Penang Airport. You can take the ETS from Butterworth to KL Sentral and then fly back to Penang Airport, but that is a long multi-modal detour. The most practical way is to take a taxi, bus, or ferry from Butterworth directly to the airport.
2. What is the cheapest way from Butterworth to Penang Airport?
The cheapest way is public bus route CT14 (operated by Rapid Penang) direct from Butterworth Bus Terminal to Penang Airport, costing around RM5–8 ($1.10–1.80) and taking 60–90 minutes. Alternatively, the ferry + bus combo costs about RM5–7 ($1.10–1.60) but takes longer.
3. How much does a taxi from Butterworth to Penang Airport cost?
A standard taxi or Grab car from Butterworth to Penang Airport costs between RM40 and RM60 ($9–13 USD). Grab is usually slightly cheaper than street-hailed taxis. Premium or airport transfer services cost RM70–100 ($15–22).
4. How long does it take from Butterworth to Penang Airport by car?
By taxi or private car via the Penang Bridge, the journey takes approximately 30–45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. During peak hours (7–9 AM or 5–7 PM) it can take 50–70 minutes.
5. Can I use the ferry from Butterworth to Penang Airport?
Yes, but only as part of a multi-stage journey. Take the ferry from Butterworth Ferry Terminal to George Town (RM1.20, 15–20 min), then take bus 401, 401E, or 102 from the ferry terminal to Penang Airport (45–60 min, RM3–4). Total time: 1.5–2 hours.
6. Are there night buses from Butterworth to Penang Airport?
No dedicated night bus routes run directly from Butterworth to Penang Airport. The last CT14 bus departs around 10 PM. For late-night or early-morning flights, a taxi or Grab is the only reliable option.
7. Which is better: bus or taxi from Butterworth to Penang Airport?
It depends on your priority. The bus (RM5–8) is best for budget travellers with light luggage. The taxi (RM40–60) is best for speed (30–45 min), comfort, and door-to-door service, especially with heavy bags or during bad weather.
8. How do I get from Butterworth to Penang Airport with a lot of luggage?
For heavy or multiple suitcases, a taxi or Grab is strongly recommended. The public bus can be crowded and has limited luggage space. If you must use the bus, try to travel outside peak hours. Alternatively, use the 'Takkyubin' luggage delivery service available at Butterworth station.