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HKG → BKI
Which side of the plane to sit from Hong Kong International Airport (Hong Kong) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, offering a front-row seat to the magnificent Mount Kinabalu upon arrival in Sabah, alongside great views of Hong Kong's mega-infrastructure during takeoff.
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Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
View the world's longest sea-crossing bridge snaking across the Pearl River Delta immediately after takeoff from HKG.
Paracel Islands
Catch glimpses of remote coral atolls and turquoise lagoons in the middle of the South China Sea if the flight path stays easterly.
Mount Kinabalu
The absolute highlight; the 4,095m granite peak of Borneo's highest mountain dominates the horizon during the descent into BKI.
Sabah North Coast
Aerial views of the rugged coastline and the Tip of Borneo (Kudat) as the plane enters Malaysian airspace.
To see Mount Kinabalu, choose a morning flight as the peak is frequently obscured by clouds in the afternoon. On the left side, look out the window roughly 20-30 minutes before landing. If departing HKG from Runway 25L, you will also get an excellent view of the Big Buddha on Lantau Island.
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Hong Kong Shipping Lanes
Observe hundreds of cargo ships and tankers anchored in the busy waters south of Lantau Island.
Endless Horizon
Deep blue views of the South China Sea, perfect for observing the sun's reflection on the water during midday flights.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
As the plane banks for its final approach, see the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Gaya and Sapi islands.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
A view of the city's coastal hotels and the Sutera Harbour Resort area just seconds before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for sunset views if you are on a late afternoon flight heading south. For the arrival into Kota Kinabalu, the right side provides the best view of the tropical islands and the azure waters of the marine park during the final descent.
Book Hotels in Kota KinabaluDistance: 1,835 km (1,140 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 27 min
Departure: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)
Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Route Type: International
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