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BTH destination photo
PLM destination photo

BTHPLM

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the intricate Riau Archipelago, the volcanic peaks of Lingga Island, and the scenic crossing of the Bangka Strait before landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

Barelang Bridges

Shortly after takeoff, view the iconic chain of six bridges connecting Batam, Rempang, and Galang islands.

🏝️

Lingga Archipelago

Dramatic views of Mount Daik's triple peaks rising sharply from the forested interior of Lingga Island.

🌊

Bangka Strait

The narrow turquoise waterway separating Sumatra from Bangka Island, often dotted with traditional shipping vessels.

🚤

Musi River Delta

Intricate network of brown water tributaries and mangrove swamps as the flight enters South Sumatra.

🏙️

Palembang Cityscape

Bird's-eye view of the dense urban layout and the Ampera Bridge during the final approach to PLM.

Book an early morning window seat on the left to avoid the harsh glare of the tropical sun reflecting off the sea. Look for the distinct color change in the water where the Musi River silt meets the ocean. During the wet season (Nov-Mar), expect cloud cover in the afternoons, making morning flights the best choice for visibility.

Right Side Highlights
6.7
🏭

Batam Industrial Zones

Industrial landscapes and shipping ports of southern Batam visible immediately after departure.

🌳

Sumatran Peatlands

Vast stretches of deep green primary forest and palm oil plantations across the Jambi-Palembang border.

🐍

Musi River Meanders

Watch the massive Musi River snake through the landscape with its characteristic tight, serpentine bends.

✈️

PLM Airport Perimeter

A clear view of the airport's lush surrounding greenery and the military airbase facilities upon landing.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight. Keep an eye out for 'haze' or smoke during the dry season (Aug-Oct), which can obscure ground views. This side provides a better perspective of the sheer scale of Sumatra's inland river systems as you descend.

Top Activities in Palembang
Route Information

Distance: 452 km (281 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: BTH (1.12102997303, 104.119003296)

Arrival: PLM (-2.8982501029968, 104.69999694824)

Route Type: Domestic

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