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BKKTNR

Which side of the plane to sit from Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) to Ivato Airport (Antananarivo)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is preferred as it offers a superior perspective of the Sri Lankan coastline and a more dramatic entrance into Madagascar, showcasing the transition from the turquoise Indian Ocean to the lush, steep eastern escarpment and the iconic red-soil highlands.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Andaman Sea

Clear views of the emerald waters off the coast of Thailand and the southern tip of Myanmar shortly after departure.

🇱🇰

Sri Lanka Southern Coast

Visibility of the historic city of Galle and the dense palm-fringed beaches along the southern edge of the teardrop island.

🐋

South Indian Ocean

A vast expanse of deep blue, occasionally revealing white-capped waves and remote shipping lanes between Asia and Africa.

🌳

Masoala Rainforest

The first sight of Madagascar often features the dense, primary rainforests of the east coast meeting the sea.

⛰️

Ankaratra Massif

As the plane nears Antananarivo, the rugged volcanic mountains and terraced rice paddies of the central highlands appear.

Sit on the left for the best lighting during the day, as the sun will generally be to the north (right side) for most of this southern-hemisphere bound route. Look out for the 'Red Island' effect upon descent, where the oxidized soil creates a striking contrast with the green valleys. Early morning arrivals offer the best visibility of the highlands before the afternoon clouds build up.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Distant views of these remote Indian archipelagos characterized by dense forests and white sand beaches.

💎

Maldives Atolls

Depending on the specific airway, you may catch glimpses of the northern Maldives atolls appearing like glowing rings in the ocean.

🌅

Indian Ocean Horizon

An unobstructed view of the horizon, perfect for observing the atmospheric distortion of a sunset or sunrise over the water.

🌾

Lake Alaotra

Madagascar's largest lake, surrounded by vast marshlands and the country's most productive rice-growing regions.

🏘️

Tananarive Hills

The final approach provides a panoramic view of the capital's unique architecture sprawling across the twelve sacred hills.

The right side is excellent for sunset views if you are on a late afternoon flight, as the sun sets over the African continent to the west. Be aware that glare can be intense on this side during the midday portion of the flight. Watch for the 'Red River' (Betsiboka) during the initial descent phase over northern Madagascar, which is often visible to the northwest.

Top Activities in Antananarivo
Route Information

Distance: 6,862 km (4,264 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 4 min

Departure: BKK (13.681099891662598, 100.74700164794922)

Arrival: TNR (-18.7969, 47.478802)

Route Type: International

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