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CAN → MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Guangzhou) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more scenic approach into the Philippines, featuring the lush Sierra Madre mountain range and the sprawling urban landscape of eastern Metro Manila.
Pearl River Delta
Aerial view of the massive urban sprawl including Dongguan and Shenzhen shortly after takeoff from Guangzhou.
South China Sea
Expansive views of turquoise waters and international shipping lanes during the cruise phase of the flight.
Ilocos Coastline
The first sight of land in the Philippines, featuring the rugged and beautiful coastline of Northern Luzon.
Sierra Madre Mountains
The longest mountain range in the Philippines, appearing as a dense green wall as the aircraft heads south.
Metro Manila East
A detailed look at the dense residential and commercial areas of Quezon City and Pasig during the final approach.
For morning flights, the left side is ideal for catching the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean as you approach Luzon. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes before landing for the best mountain views. Seasonal cloud cover is common during the monsoon season (June to October), so clear views are most likely during the dry season from November to April.
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge
The world's longest sea-crossing bridge is often visible to the west during the initial climb out of Guangzhou.
Mount Pinatubo
On clear days, the famous volcanic crater and its turquoise lake can be spotted in the distance over Central Luzon.
Zambales Coast
Scenic views of the mountainous coastline and hidden coves along the western edge of the Bataan Peninsula.
Manila Bay
A panoramic view of the vast bay filled with cargo ships and tankers awaiting entry to the Port of Manila.
Sunset Horizon
Late afternoon flights offer a spectacular view of the sun setting over the West Philippine Sea.
Choose the right side for flights departing Guangzhou in the late afternoon to experience a stunning sunset over the ocean. This side is also superior for viewing Manila Bay's maritime activity. If the pilot announces a western approach (runway 06), the right side will provide a direct view of the Mall of Asia complex and the Manila skyline just before touchdown.
Distance: 1,278 km (794 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: CAN (23.39240074157715, 113.29900360107422)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: International
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