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BKI destination photo
PPS destination photo

BKIPPS

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a consistent view of the stunning Sabah coastline, the iconic 'Tip of Borneo', and the most scenic approach into Palawan featuring the coral-fringed islets of Honda Bay.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Just after takeoff from BKI, see the cluster of five islands including Gaya and Sapi surrounded by turquoise waters.

🧭

The Tip of Borneo

View the dramatic northernmost point of Borneo at Kudat where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea.

🌊

Balabac Strait

The maritime border crossing between Malaysia and the Philippines, dotted with remote atolls.

🏖️

Southern Palawan Reefs

Stunning aerial views of shallow coral reefs and sandbars as the flight enters Philippine airspace.

🛶

Honda Bay Islands

On final approach, look for Luli Island and Starfish Island sitting in the clear blue waters north of the city.

Book an early morning flight for the clearest skies over the Sulu Sea. The left side (Seat A/B) avoids direct glare from the eastern sun on this northbound route. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after departure for the Kudat coastline.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Mount Kinabalu

On clear mornings, the massive granite peaks of South East Asia's highest mountain are visible inland to the east.

🌴

Crocker Range

Dense, mist-covered rainforests and rugged mountain ridges of the Sabah interior during the initial climb.

🌋

Mapun Island

A remote volcanic island in the middle of the Sulu Sea, often visible as a lone green speck in the blue expanse.

⛰️

Victoria Peaks

The central mountain spine of Palawan, featuring jagged karst-like formations and dense tropical jungle.

🏙️

Puerto Princesa City

A full view of the city layout and the bay as the aircraft aligns with the runway for landing.

The right side is best for spotting Mount Kinabalu, but you must fly before 9:00 AM as clouds usually obscure the peak later in the day. During landing, this side often gets a closer look at the urban sprawl and the Puerto Princesa Bay area.

Top Activities in Puerto Princesa
Route Information

Distance: 518 km (322 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)

Arrival: PPS (9.742119789123535, 118.75900268554688)

Route Type: International

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