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CGK → BTJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport (Banda Aceh)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic Bukit Barisan mountain range, featuring some of Indonesia's highest volcanoes and the stunning expanse of the Indian Ocean coastline.
Mount Kerinci
The highest volcano in Indonesia, standing at 3,805 meters, often visible poking through the clouds.
Lake Toba
The world's largest volcanic lake, appearing as a massive blue caldera with Samosir Island in its center.
Indian Ocean Coastline
Dramatic views where the rugged Bukit Barisan mountains meet the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean.
Padang Coast
A bird's-eye view of the West Sumatran capital and the surrounding coral-fringed islands.
Mount Sinabung
An active stratovolcano known for its frequent and photogenic ash plumes.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. The most spectacular mountain views occur roughly 60 to 90 minutes after takeoff from Jakarta. Keep your camera ready as you pass over North Sumatra for the iconic view of Lake Toba's western edge.
Strait of Malacca
One of the world's busiest shipping lanes, filled with giant cargo ships and tankers.
Sumatran River Deltas
Intricate networks of brown rivers winding through dense green palm plantations and mangroves.
Medan Cityscape
The sprawling urban landscape of North Sumatra's capital as you fly north toward Aceh.
Pulau Weh
On the final approach to BTJ, you can often spot the northernmost tip of Indonesia across the bay.
Sunrise Views
On early morning flights, this side receives the golden morning light over the Java Sea and Malacca Strait.
The right side is ideal for morning flights if you enjoy watching the sunrise over the sea. While the terrain is flatter than the left, the industrial and maritime activity in the Strait of Malacca is fascinating. During the final descent into Banda Aceh, look for the scenic coastline of the Aceh province.
Distance: 1,798 km (1,117 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min
Departure: CGK (-6.1255698204, 106.65599823)
Arrival: BTJ (5.5228720240100015, 95.42063713070002)
Route Type: Domestic
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