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BKK → HAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistent view of the dramatic mountain ranges of Northern Laos and a clearer perspective of the Mekong River crossing, along with prime views of the Bangkok skyline during departure.
Bangkok Metropolis
Panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River and the sprawling urban density of Bangkok immediately after takeoff.
Khao Yai National Park
Lush, forested mountain ridges of the Sankamphaeng Range, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Mekong River
A spectacular crossing of the mighty Mekong River near the border of Thailand and Laos.
Annamite Range
The rugged, cloud-shrouded peaks of the northern Indochinese mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.
Red River Delta
A patchwork of vibrant green rice paddies and intricate canal systems as you descend into Hanoi.
Book an afternoon flight to ensure the sun is on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing better lighting for photography. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the Mekong crossing. During the winter months (November to February), the air is clearer, offering sharper views of the Laotian highlands.
Gulf of Thailand
Aerial views of the coastline and the blue waters of the Gulf during the initial climb phase.
Isan Plateaus
The vast, flat agricultural heartland of Northeast Thailand, characterized by geometric field patterns.
Nam Ngum Reservoir
A massive, island-dotted lake in Laos that glimmers in the sunlight during mid-flight.
Ninh Binh Karsts
Stunning limestone formations known as 'Halong Bay on Land' visible if the flight path approaches Hanoi from the south.
Hanoi Outskirts
View of the rapidly developing industrial zones and traditional villages surrounding Noi Bai Airport.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare. If the wind dictates a southern approach into HAN, this side offers a rare glimpse of the Ninh Binh limestone towers. Pay attention to the agricultural patterns in Isan, which change significantly between the dry and wet seasons.
Distance: 995 km (618 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: BKK (13.681099891662598, 100.74700164794922)
Arrival: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Route Type: International
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