Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport Lounge Access for Malaysian Travellers

Whether you’re flying home to Malaysia or connecting to another destination in Indonesia, the airport lounges at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) offer a welcoming escape from the busy terminal. Here’s a complete guide to help you make the most of your lounge experience.

Overview of Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

Source: Pemerintah Kota Pekanbaru

Sultan Syarif Kasim II International Airport (IATA: PKU) serves the city of Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau Province, Indonesia. Located just a short drive from the city center, the airport is convenient for both domestic and international travelers. It provides smooth operations and a friendly atmosphere, whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or returning home.

Terminals & Layout

The airport features a single main terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Its straightforward layout makes it easy to navigate between check-in counters, immigration (for international flights), security screening, and boarding gates—ensuring a stress-free airport experience.

Passenger Traffic & Connections

Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport is a key regional hub, offering direct connections to major cities such as Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Medan, and Batam. This makes it a convenient gateway for travellers flying within Indonesia or making international connections across Southeast Asia.

Lounge Facilities – What You Can Expect

For passengers looking to relax before their flight, the airport lounges provide essential comforts, including:

• Comfortable seating and a calm environment away from the main terminal
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging points for your devices
• Snacks and light refreshments to enjoy while waiting
• Work-friendly areas, suitable for business travellers who need space to focus

These amenities offer an ideal place to refresh, work quietly, or simply unwind before boarding.

Why It Matters for Malaysian Travellers

For travellers flying between Malaysia and the Riau region, Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport is a practical and friendly transit point. The lounges help enhance your travel experience by offering comfort, convenience, and a peaceful setting to rest or prepare for your journey ahead. Whether you're starting or ending your trip, the lounges contribute to a smoother and more pleasant travel day.

✈️ Why Use a Lounge at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

While Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) is smaller compared to major airports like Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta or Kuala Lumpur International Airport, it can still become busy during peak travel periods, holidays, and weekend flights. Airport lounges at PKU offer a calm and comfortable space away from the crowds, making your journey smoother and more relaxing. Whether you're flying out, connecting, or returning home, the lounges provide a convenient place to rest before your flight.

Recommended Lounges at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

1. Saphire Lounge

Located in the main departure area, the Saphire Lounge provides a comfortable and welcoming space for all types of travellers. It offers air-conditioned seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks and beverages, and rest areas. It is accessible via lounge membership programs, eligible credit cards, or pay-per-use access.

2. Garuda Indonesia Executive Lounge

This lounge is designed for Garuda Indonesia Business Class passengers and GarudaMiles elite members. It features upgraded seating areas, additional food and beverage selections, and work-friendly areas in a calm and refined atmosphere—reflecting Garuda Indonesia’s signature hospitality.

💳 How Malaysians Can Access Lounges at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

Source: Flickr

Credit Cards

Many Malaysian credit cards—such as those from Maybank, CIMB, RHB, HSBC, Standard Chartered, and others—come with access to airport lounge programs like Priority Pass, DragonPass, LoungeKey, or Visa/Mastercard travel privileges.
If your card includes one of these memberships, you can typically enter lounges at PKU (such as the Saphire Lounge) either for complimentary visits (limited per year) or at a discounted rate once your free quota is used.

Be sure to:

• Check your card’s lounge program in advance
• Confirm whether your visit counts as free or chargeable

Lounge Passes

If you don’t have a premium credit card, you can still purchase a lounge pass.
Passes may be available through:

• Trip.com
• LoungeBuddy
• Or directly at the lounge reception (walk-in access)

Pricing may vary based on demand and amenities. Since access policies occasionally change, it’s best to check for updated rates on your preferred booking platform before travelling.

Airline Cabin Class or Frequent Flyer Status

Passengers traveling in Business Class or those holding elite frequent flyer status with airlines operating at PKU (such as Garuda Indonesia) may receive complimentary lounge access.
For example:

• Garuda Indonesia Business Class passengers may access the Garuda Indonesia Executive Lounge.
• GarudaMiles elite members may also be eligible.

Always confirm access eligibility when booking your ticket or at check-in.

🛂 Comparison: How Malaysians Can Access Lounges at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

⭐ Key Lounges & Access Tips at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU)

Below are the main lounges available at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport, along with what they offer and how you can access them:

✨ Access Tips for Travellers

• Check your credit card benefits
  Many Malaysian bank credit cards include access through Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey. You may already have complimentary lounge entries available—remember to confirm your remaining quota.
• Book your lounge access online
  Platforms such as Trip.com, or your lounge membership app often offer better prices and guaranteed entry, especially during peak travel periods.
• Flying Business Class on Garuda Indonesia?
  Simply present your boarding pass at the Garuda Indonesia Executive Lounge entrance for complimentary access.

💡 How to Use Trip.com for Lounge Access & Planning at Kuala Namu International Airport (KNO)

Trip.com is a convenient platform for checking available lounges at Kuala Namu Airport. It allows you to view lounge locations, opening hours, access requirements, and the amenities provided—helping you plan ahead with confidence.

Filter by Access Type

Use the platform to check which lounges accept Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey through your Malaysian credit card. You can also identify lounges available for pay-per-use entry if you prefer to purchase access directly.

Read Traveller Reviews

Browse reviews from other passengers to learn about:

• Seating comfort and crowd levels
• Food and beverage variety
• Wi-Fi reliability and charging access
• Cleanliness and overall service quality

Book in Advance

Whenever possible, book your lounge access before arriving at the airport.
Advance reservations on Trip.com often:

• Offer better pricing than walk-in rates
• Help guarantee a spot during peak travel periods, holidays, or busy flight timings

Using Trip.com makes planning your lounge experience at Kuala Namu simple and efficient, ensuring a more relaxed, comfortable, and stress-free journey. ✨

🌿 Relaxation & Wellness Facilities at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport Lounges

Source: Priority Pass

The lounges at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) are designed to help travellers relax and recharge before their domestic or regional flights. Whether you are travelling for business, leisure, or returning home, these lounges offer a calm, comfortable space away from the busier public areas of the terminal.

Showers & Freshening Up

Some lounges at PKU, including selected Saphire Lounge locations, may offer shower facilities with towels and basic toiletries. This is particularly convenient for travellers with long layovers or those who want to refresh before boarding.

Massage Chairs & Rest Areas

While there are no full spa services, certain lounges feature massage chairs and quiet rest zones. These spaces offer a relaxing way to ease travel fatigue and unwind during your wait.

Comfortable Seating & Nap-Friendly Spaces

Lounges at PKU provide comfortable, cushioned seating arranged in calm and semi-private areas. These spaces are suitable for:

• Short naps
• Reading or browsing
• Simply resting quietly before your flight

The atmosphere is much more peaceful compared to the main departure hall.

Quiet, Peaceful Environment

Soft lighting, temperature-controlled rooms, and limited background noise create a relaxing and stress-free environment, ideal for travellers who prefer a quiet space to think, work, or rest.

Light Refreshments & Beverages

Most lounges offer a selection of:

• Light snacks
• Simple hot food items
• Coffee, tea, and soft drinks

While the dining options are modest, they provide convenient comfort before departure.

👀 Useful Tips for Travellers at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport Lounges

Source: DestinasiIndo

Check Your Ticket & Membership Status

If you’re flying Business Class, particularly with Garuda Indonesia, you may already have complimentary lounge access. Economy Class passengers can typically enter lounges through Priority Pass, DragonPass, LoungeKey, or by purchasing a pay-per-use pass at the lounge or online.

Bring the Right Documents

Make sure you have:

• Your boarding pass
• Passport or other identification
• Your digital or physical Priority Pass / DragonPass / LoungeKey membership (if applicable)

These will be required for lounge entry verification.

Know the Opening Hours & Busier Times

Lounges at PKU generally open from early morning until the final flight of the day. Crowds are typically higher during:

• Weekend departures
• School holidays
• Evening flights to Jakarta or other major hubs

Arriving earlier helps ensure seating availability.

Manage Your Expectations

• Showers: Available in selected lounges—ideal for travellers who want to refresh before boarding.
• Food & Drinks: Expect simple hot dishes, light snacks, and beverages rather than full buffet-style dining.
• Wi-Fi & Power: Wi-Fi is usually reliable, though speeds may vary during peak hours. Charging points are available but may be limited—bringing a power bank is recommended.
• Language: Lounge staff generally speak Bahasa Indonesia and English, and are accustomed to assisting international and regional travellers.

Cost & Payment Options

If you don’t have complimentary access:

• You can pay directly at the lounge counter
• Or book in advance through platforms such as Trip.com to secure availability and potentially better rates.

✨ Making the Most of Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport Lounges

Spending time in a lounge at Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport (PKU) can greatly enhance your travel experience. Whether you're flying to Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Batam, or continuing onward, the lounges offer a calm and comfortable space to relax away from the busy terminal areas.

A little preparation helps—check your boarding gate, confirm whether your credit card, airline ticket, or lounge membership provides access, or consider purchasing a lounge pass in advance. Planning ahead allows you to avoid crowded seating areas and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable pre-flight experience.

Inside the lounges, you can take advantage of comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, reliable Wi-Fi, and in some lounges, shower facilities—perfect for refreshing yourself before boarding.

Take a moment to unwind, recharge, and enjoy a peaceful break as part of your journey through Sultan Syarif Kasim II Airport. It’s a small upgrade that can make your trip feel noticeably more relaxed and pleasant. ✈️🌿