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BPN → UPG
Which side of the plane to sit from Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (Balikpapan) to Hasanuddin International Airport (Ujung Pandang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the turquoise Spermonde Archipelago and the urban coastline of Makassar during the final descent.
Balikpapan Bay Bridge
View of the impressive bridge connecting Balikpapan to Penajam Paser Utara.
Spermonde Archipelago
A stunning collection of over 100 small coral islands with vibrant turquoise reefs visible before landing.
Port of Makassar
Busy maritime traffic featuring large container ships and traditional Phinisi schooners.
Losari Beach
The iconic waterfront landmark of Makassar, clearly visible as the plane lines up with the runway.
Makassar Urban Sprawl
The dense city layout and growing skyline of the provincial capital of South Sulawesi.
The right side is unbeatable for island enthusiasts. Aim for an afternoon flight to see the sun reflecting off the coral reefs, though be prepared for some glare.
Balikpapan Cityscape
Aerial view of the city center and the Pertamina oil refinery complexes shortly after takeoff.
Makassar Strait
A vast expanse of deep blue water separating the islands of Borneo and Sulawesi.
Maros-Pangkep Karst
Dramatic limestone tower formations, some of the largest in the world, visible during descent into UPG.
Mount Lompobattang
In the distance, the prominent volcanic peaks of South Sulawesi can be seen breaking through the clouds.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. This side is prime for viewing the rugged limestone cliffs of Maros during the final approach phase.
Distance: 515 km (320 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: BPN (-1.2682700157200002, 116.893997192)
Arrival: UPG (-5.061629772186278, 119.5540008544922)
Route Type: Domestic
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