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BKI → KUL
Which side of the plane to sit from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Kuala Lumpur)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most scenic departure from Borneo, featuring the stunning islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and the Kota Kinabalu coastline, followed by a better perspective of the approach into the Klang Valley.
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Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Aerial views of Gaya, Sapi, and Manukan islands with their surrounding coral reefs right after departure.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
A full view of the city's coastal stretch, including the iconic blue-domed City Mosque.
Offshore Oil Platforms
Small industrial sparks in the middle of the South China Sea, highlighting Malaysia's maritime energy industry.
South China Sea Sunset
The right side faces north/northwest, providing spectacular unobstructed sunset views on late afternoon flights.
Sepang International Circuit
The world-famous F1 track is frequently visible just moments before touchdown at KUL.
The right side is superior for evening flights as it captures the sunset over the horizon. During the final approach to KLIA, this side usually provides a better view of the airport's massive infrastructure and the nearby Formula 1 circuit. Request a seat in front of the wing for the best photography of the islands near KK.
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Mount Kinabalu
Visible shortly after takeoff if the flight path turns west, offering a glimpse of Borneo's highest peak.
Sarawak Coastline
Distant views of the rugged and forested coastline of Sarawak as you cross the South China Sea.
Tioman Island
On clear days, the mountainous silhouette of Pulau Tioman can be seen as the aircraft approaches the peninsula.
Johor Oil Palm Estates
The distinct geometric patterns of Malaysia's vast oil palm plantations during the descent into Sepang.
Sit on the left if you are taking a morning flight to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep a sharp eye out immediately after takeoff; if the weather is clear, Mount Kinabalu is a majestic sight that shouldn't be missed, though it is often shrouded in clouds by midday.
Get eSIMs for Malaysia
Get eSIMs for MalaysiaDistance: 1,629 km (1,012 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 10 min
Departure: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Arrival: KUL (2.7455799579619997, 101.70999908446998)
Route Type: Domestic
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