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HAN → MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Philippine coastline, including the Zambales Mountains and the iconic approach over Manila Bay, often accompanied by a spectacular sunset on evening flights.
Ha Long Bay
Distant views of the iconic limestone karsts of the Gulf of Tonkin shortly after takeoff.
Sanya Highlands
The lush, mountainous southern tip of Hainan Island as you track toward the Philippines.
Mount Pinatubo
The prominent volcanic crater and surrounding ash-filled valleys visible during the descent.
Subic Bay
The clear outline of the former naval base and its naturally protected deep-water harbor.
Manila Bay Sunset
A world-renowned sunset over the water if arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
Bataan Peninsula
The rugged, historic terrain marking the northern entrance to the bay area.
The right side is highly recommended for flights arriving between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM to catch the sunset. During the monsoon season (June to October), expect dramatic cloud formations over the Zambales Mountains. Be ready with your camera as the plane turns over Manila Bay for the final descent.
Red River Delta
Intricate patterns of rice paddies and irrigation canals immediately after departing Hanoi.
Haikou City
The northern coastal skyline of Hainan Island as the flight crosses the Qiongzhou Strait.
South China Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue water with scattered cargo ships along major shipping lanes.
Northern Luzon Mountains
Distances views of the Sierra Madre mountain range as you enter Philippine airspace.
Metro Manila North
The dense urban landscape of Quezon City and Caloocan during the final approach.
Choose this side for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Pacific horizon. It is generally the quieter side for views until the final descent into the city. Use a polarizing filter for photos to cut through the haze over the Red River Delta.
Distance: 1,773 km (1,102 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: International
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