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BKI → MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior primarily for the breathtaking departure view of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, followed by scenic island transitions across the Sulu Sea.
Mount Kinabalu
Stunning views of the 4,095m granite peak shortly after departing Kota Kinabalu.
Cagayan Ridge
Aerial perspectives of remote coral atolls and reefs in the Sulu Sea.
Mindoro Ranges
Overflying the rugged, forest-covered mountains of central Mindoro island.
Laguna de Bay
The largest lake in the Philippines, visible just before touchdown in Manila.
Metro Manila
Sweeping views of the Makati and BGC financial districts during the descent.
Sit on the right for the absolute best view of Mount Kinabalu; it appears within 5-10 minutes of takeoff. For the arrival, the right side often provides a clearer view of the sprawling Metro Manila skyline.
South China Sea
Deep blue waters stretching toward the horizon with occasional cargo ships.
Palawan Archipelago
Distant views of the northern Palawan islands known for limestone cliffs.
Corregidor Island
A historic tadpole-shaped island guarding the entrance to Manila Bay.
Mount Pico de Loro
Distinctive mountain peak visible as the aircraft enters Luzon airspace.
Manila Bay Coast
Views of the Cavite coastline and the busy shipping lanes of the bay.
Choose this side for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the South China Sea. During the final approach, look down for the historic Corregidor Island and the Bataan Peninsula.
Distance: 1,097 km (682 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: International
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