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HAN → DIN
Which side of the plane to sit from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) to Dien Bien Phu Airport (Dienbienphu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic transition from the Red River Delta to the high peaks of the Hoang Lien Son range, finishing with a panoramic descent into the historic Muong Thanh Valley.
Ba Vi Mountain Range
Three distinct peaks rising sharply from the plains, often appearing like islands in a sea of clouds.
Da River Gorge
Dramatic views of the river as it carves through steep limestone cliffs and rugged mountain terrain.
Hoang Lien Son Range
Distant views of Vietnam's highest peaks, including the silhouette of Fansipan on clear days.
Muong Thanh Valley
The final descent offers a spectacular view of the vast heart-shaped valley where the historic Battle of Dien Bien Phu took place.
Ensure you are on the right side for the approach into DIN. The aircraft usually maneuvers to align with the valley, providing an incredible top-down view of the rice paddies and the city. Use a polarizing filter for photos to cut through the frequent mountain haze.
Hanoi Outskirts
View the sprawling residential development and the intricate network of the Red River's tributaries.
Hoa Binh Reservoir
A massive, deep-blue man-made lake winding through the mountains, created by one of Vietnam's largest dams.
Moc Chau Plateau
Vast green stretches of tea plantations and highland pastures visible through the clouds.
The left side is best for seeing the massive Hoa Binh Dam shortly after the flight reaches cruising altitude. Morning flights are recommended to catch the sun reflecting off the reservoir water, though winter months can be quite misty.
Distance: 291 km (181 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Arrival: DIN (21.3974990845, 103.008003235)
Route Type: Domestic
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