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BKI β TPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is significantly more scenic, providing an immediate view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu after takeoff and a breathtaking panorama of Taiwan's high mountain ranges upon descent.
Mount Kinabalu
The 4,095-meter granite peak of Borneoβs highest mountain is visible within minutes of takeoff on the right.
Crocker Range
Lush, cloud-covered mountain ridges of northern Borneo stretching towards the horizon.
Luzon Strait
The maritime gateway between the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean as the flight nears Taiwan.
Central Mountain Range
The 'Spine of Taiwan,' featuring rugged peaks exceeding 3,000 meters, visible during the arrival descent.
Taoyuan Cityscape
A dense urban view of Taoyuan and distant glimpses of the Taipei basin as the aircraft aligns with the runway.
The right side is essential for seeing Mount Kinabalu; book a morning flight to see it before it gets obscured by tropical clouds. On the approach to Taipei, the right side offers views of Taiwan's interior mountains, including Jade Mountain (Yushan) on clear days. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the terrain.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Aerial view of Gaya and Sapi islands with their coral reefs immediately after departing Kota Kinabalu.
South China Sea
Vast stretches of deep blue water with occasional sightings of large cargo vessels and offshore oil platforms.
Penghu Archipelago
A cluster of volcanic islands in the Taiwan Strait, visible on the left during the descent phase if the path is western.
Western Coastal Wind Farms
Long lines of offshore and coastal wind turbines along the Changhua and Taichung coastlines.
The left side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the South China Sea. During the approach to Taoyuan, this side often provides a clear view of the coastline and the industrial ports of western Taiwan. Sit behind the wing for the best photography angles of the islands near Sabah.
Distance: 2,199 km (1,366 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 56 min
Departure: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Arrival: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Route Type: International
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