Loading map...
HAN → TPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is generally superior on this route as it offers the iconic aerial perspective of Halong Bay shortly after departure from Hanoi and provides views of the Penghu Islands and the vibrant western coastline of Taiwan during the descent.
Halong Bay
The world-famous limestone karsts and emerald waters are often visible shortly after the aircraft leaves the Vietnamese coast.
Cat Ba Island
The largest island in the bay, featuring dense jungle and rugged cliffs, visible during the initial climb.
South China Sea Shipping Lanes
View hundreds of cargo ships and tankers navigating one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes.
Penghu Archipelago
A cluster of flat-topped volcanic islands in the middle of the Taiwan Strait, known for their unique geography.
Hsinchu Science Park
Taiwan's technological heartland and the coastal windmills are visible as the plane begins its final descent.
Taiwanese West Coast
The sprawling wetlands and industrial ports of Taoyuan and Hsinchu counties during the landing approach.
The right side is essential for seeing Halong Bay; keep your camera ready within the first 20 minutes of flight. Morning flights are best to have the sun positioned behind the aircraft, illuminating the blue waters of the Taiwan Strait and the green landscapes of Taiwan without harsh shadows.
Hanoi Cityscape
Aerial views of the Red River winding through the densely packed districts of Vietnam's capital right after takeoff.
Pearl River Delta
On clear days, see the massive urban sprawl of the Shenzhen and Hong Kong megalopolis in the distance to the north.
Fujian Coastline
The rugged and highly indented coastline of mainland China as the flight tracks parallel to the Fujian province.
Yangmingshan National Park
The lush volcanic mountain ranges of northern Taiwan are often visible if the aircraft approaches TPE from the north.
Tamsui River Mouth
The scenic meeting point of the Tamsui River and the East China Sea near the end of the journey.
Sit on the left for early views of Hanoi's West Lake. On night flights, this side offers a spectacular view of the endless city lights along the Chinese coast. Avoid late afternoon flights if you want to prevent glare, as the sun will be on the right side for the majority of the trip.
Distance: 1,633 km (1,015 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min
Departure: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Arrival: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.