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BPN → MDC
Which side of the plane to sit from Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (Balikpapan) to Sam Ratulangi Airport (Manado)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a panoramic view of the Sulawesi mainland, showcasing the diverse topography from the neck of the island to the volcanic peaks near Manado.
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Balikpapan Industrial Coast
A unique view of East Kalimantan's oil refineries and shipping infrastructure immediately after takeoff.
Sulawesi Neck Mountains
Dramatic, rugged mountain ranges visible as the aircraft crosses into the central part of Sulawesi.
Gulf of Tomini
The massive, calm bay to the south, visible as the flight traverses the narrow northern peninsula.
Minahasa Highlands
Lush green agricultural land and rolling hills that characterize the interior of North Sulawesi.
Mount Klabat
The highest volcano in the North Sulawesi province, standing as a landmark near Sam Ratulangi Airport.
The right side is best for viewing the lush mountain ranges and the vast Gulf of Tomini. During the descent into Manado, you can often spot Mount Klabat and the Tondano highlands. Morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the convective cloud buildup that usually obscures the mountain peaks by mid-afternoon.
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Makassar Strait
The deep blue expanse separating Borneo and Sulawesi, often dotted with traditional fishing vessels.
Celebes Sea
Vast ocean views to the north as the flight tracks along the northern coast of the Minahasa Peninsula.
Manado Tua Volcano
A stunning, perfectly conical inactive volcano island that dominates the view during the approach into Manado.
Bunaken Marine Park
Visible turquoise rings in the water indicating the world-famous coral reefs surrounding the islands.
Choose this side for views of the open Celebes Sea and the striking silhouette of Manado Tua volcano during the final approach. This side is less likely to have direct sun glare during morning flights heading northeast. Look closely as you descend to spot the reef structures around Bunaken.
Get eSIMs for Indonesia
Get eSIMs for IndonesiaDistance: 946 km (588 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: BPN (-1.2682700157200002, 116.893997192)
Arrival: MDC (1.5492600202560425, 124.9260025024414)
Route Type: Domestic
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