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BPN → BTH
Which side of the plane to sit from Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (Balikpapan) to Hang Nadim International Airport (Batam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the vast, winding river systems of Western Kalimantan and the dense rainforest interior of Borneo before crossing the equator.
Borneo Interior
Expansive views of the dense tropical rainforest canopy of Central and West Kalimantan.
Kapuas River
The world's longest island river, snaking through the landscape with incredible meanders and silt-rich brown water.
Muller Mountain Range
Rugged, cloud-shrouded peaks forming the backbone of the Borneo interior near the border areas.
Equator Crossing
The flight path passes very close to the Pontianak region, where the sun is directly overhead at noon.
Singapore Strait Approach
As you descend into Batam, look for the massive density of international shipping traffic heading toward Singapore.
The right side is ideal for nature enthusiasts. Look for the distinct change in landscape from the dark green forest to the brownish rivers. Afternoon flights offer excellent lighting for the Kalimantan landscape, but watch for tropical thunderheads during the monsoon season (Nov-Mar).
Balikpapan Bay
View of the Pertamina refinery and the bustling industrial activity of the Balikpapan coastline upon takeoff.
Karimata Strait
The deep blue waters separating Borneo from Sumatra, often dotted with cargo ships and local fishing vessels.
Bangka-Belitung Islands
Glimpses of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters of these famous tin-mining islands as you head west.
Riau Archipelago
Dozens of small, lush islands including Lingga and Singkep appearing as green jewels in the sea.
Batam South Coast
Observation of the shipyard developments and industrial zones on the southern tip of Batam Island.
Choose this side for views of the coastline and the major island chains of Bangka-Belitung. Best during morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun reflecting off the Java Sea.
Distance: 1,445 km (898 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: BPN (-1.2682700157200002, 116.893997192)
Arrival: BTH (1.12102997303, 104.119003296)
Route Type: Domestic
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