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AKY destination photo
SNW destination photo

AKYSNW

Which side of the plane to sit from Sittwe Airport (Sittwe) to Thandwe Airport (Thandwe)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior view of the intricate Rakhine coastline, featuring massive river deltas, the rugged Rakhine Yoma mountain range, and the unique island geography of the region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Kaladan River Delta

Extensive views of the complex river network and silt-heavy waters emptying into the Bay of Bengal immediately after takeoff.

🏝️

Ramree Island

A large coastal island featuring diverse topography, including mangroves and the strategic port town of Kyaukpyu.

⛰️

Rakhine Yoma Range

The distant, forested peaks of the Arakan Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop to the coastal plains.

🌾

Coastal Paddy Fields

The patchwork of traditional agricultural lands that define the rural landscape of the Rakhine State.

🛶

Estuarine Mangroves

Rich, green mangrove forests lining the inlets and tidal creeks between Sittwe and Kyaukpyu.

Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and capture the best colors of the river deltas. This side is also best for seeing the contrast between the muddy river outlets and the blue sea. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the plane crosses over the Lemro and Kaladan river mouths.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌏

Bay of Bengal

Unobstructed, vast blue horizons over the open ocean stretching toward India.

🏖️

Ngapali Beach

The famous white sand crescent and turquoise waters visible during the final approach into Thandwe.

🌋

Cheduba Island

On clear days, look for this volcanic island sitting further out in the Bay of Bengal.

🚤

Fishing Fleets

Small traditional Burmese fishing boats dotting the coastline near Thandwe.

The right side is perfect for sunset flights, offering a golden hour view over the Bay of Bengal. On the final descent into SNW, the right side often gets a brief but stunning view of the luxury resorts and coconut groves along Ngapali Beach. Ensure your window is clean as the ocean glare can be intense mid-day.

Top Activities in Thandwe
Route Information

Distance: 239 km (149 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 24 min

Departure: AKY (20.132699966430664, 92.87259674072266)

Arrival: SNW (18.4606990814209, 94.30010223388672)

Route Type: Domestic

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