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BSO โ MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Basco Airport (Basco) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panoramic experience of the Philippine coastline, including the Ilocos region's beaches, the Zambales mountain range, and the iconic descent over Manila Bay.
Sabtang Island
The rugged cliffs and traditional stone-house villages of Batanes are visible shortly after departure.
Ilocos Coastline
Stunning white sand beaches and the turquoise waters of the West Philippine Sea hugging the shore.
Bangui Wind Farm
The giant white wind turbines lined up along the coast of Ilocos Norte can be spotted on clear days.
Mount Pinatubo
The distinct crater and vast lahar fields resulting from the 1991 eruption are visible as you pass Central Luzon.
Manila Bay
The final approach offers a spectacular view of cargo ships at anchor and the sunset over the harbor.
The right side is the undisputed winner for afternoon flights, offering world-class sunset views over the sea. Watch for the unique landscape of Mount Pinatubo's ash-covered valleys about 30 minutes before landing. Avoid seats directly over the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Ilocos shoreline.
Mount Iraya
The towering stratovolcano that dominates Batan Island, visible immediately after takeoff from Basco.
Babuyan Islands
Aerial views of remote volcanic islands including Camiguin de Babuyan and its smoking craters.
Sierra Madre Mountains
The lush, tropical rainforest canopy of the longest mountain range in the Philippines.
Cagayan Valley
The expansive agricultural plains of Northern Luzon, bisected by the mighty Cagayan River.
Quezon City Skyline
As the flight nears Manila, the dense urban sprawl and high-rises of the northern capital region appear.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. It is also the best side for close-up views of Mount Iraya during the initial climb. During the monsoon season (JuneโOctober), this side often provides dramatic views of cloud formations building up over the Sierra Madre.
Distance: 669 km (416 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: BSO (20.4513, 121.980003)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: Domestic
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