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BKI → LBU
Which side of the plane to sit from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu) to Labuan Airport (Labuan)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a dramatic perspective of the Sabah coastline, the sprawling Crocker Range mountains, and the intricate river deltas, with the added potential for a distant view of Mount Kinabalu.
Mount Kinabalu
Look back towards the northeast shortly after departure for a glimpse of the iconic granite peaks of Southeast Asia's highest mountain.
Crocker Range National Park
The plane flies parallel to this massive mountain range, covered in dense, ancient tropical rainforest.
Padas River Delta
Observe the winding, clay-colored Padas River as it snakes through the mangroves into the sea near Beaufort.
Coastal Settlements
Bird's-eye views of Papar and Kimanis towns nestled between the mountains and the coastline.
Book an early morning flight (before 09:00 AM) for the best chance to see the mountains before they are obscured by tropical cloud cover. Sit in the rear of the cabin for unobstructed views of the Padas River during the initial descent phase.
Pulau Tiga
Famous as the original 'Survivor' island, this emerald-green landmass is easily spotted in the South China Sea.
Kimanis Gas Terminal
Look for the massive industrial complex along the coast which serves as a major hub for Sabah's energy sector.
Labuan Marine Park
As you descend into LBU, see the shallow turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding Pulau Kuraman and Pulau Rusukan.
Labuan Anchorage
Dozens of large oil tankers and cargo vessels are usually anchored in the deep waters just off Labuan's coast.
The right side is perfect for sunset flights, as you can watch the sun drop into the South China Sea. Wear polarized sunglasses to better distinguish the vibrant reef patterns around the Labuan archipelago during the final approach.
Distance: 113 km (70 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 min
Departure: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Arrival: LBU (5.300680160522461, 115.25)
Route Type: Domestic
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