Redang Airport (RDN), Redang Island, Pulau Redang

Overview

Redang is a tiny island off the coast of Malaysia with crystal clear seas, white sand and a colourful collection of underwater marine life. Just 45 kilometres of the coast of Kuala Terengganu in the South China Sea the Redang archipelago consists of nine islands with coral reefs teeming with barracudas, turtles and eel fish.

The Redang villagers are originally believed to have come from Indonesia and were settlers of the Bugis from Celebes. In 1976 the Malaysian government built a village on the island that was home to the 250 fishermen that made their living there.

In 2000 Redang became famous as the island where the scenes for ‘Summer Holiday’ the Hong Kong film were shot. This put the quiet, idyllic island in the spotlight and the tourists started coming to visit and the resorts took off from there. In 2001 the old village was torn down and many residents gave up fishing and relocated to the mainland.

The airport is publicly owned by the Malaysian Government and operated by Malaysia Airports Snd. Bhd.

History

Redang first became known as a tourist destination in the late 1980’s and by 1991 it was declared a national marine park. This brought many enthusiasts who came to swim, snorkel and dive in the clear waters.

The airport was completed in 2003 by the Berjaya Group and the first flights between the island and Kuala Lumpur started in March 2004, followed by flights to Singapore a year later.

Runways

The runway was extended in 2009 and the airport was closed for a short time while the work was carried out.

Terminals

The single storey, red-roofed terminal building is accessed by a short path through the immaculate lawned gardens. The terminal is small but modern with all the necessary facilities for a short wait.

Flights and Destinations

Berjaya Air – Kuala Lumpur (Subang), Singapore Changi

Transport To and From the Airport

As Redang is a small island there is one road that connects the island from one to the other, passing by the airport and the only village. None of the beaches are connected by road and there are no water taxis. Any visitors arriving at Redang airport must pre-book transport with their resort.