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HKT β KMG
Which side of the plane to sit from Phuket International Airport (Phuket) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (Kunming)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Phuket coastline during takeoff and the iconic Dianchi Lake during the approach into Kunming.
Phuket Island
A full aerial view of the island's eastern beaches and the Andaman Sea during the initial climb.
Khao Sok National Park
Dense tropical rainforest and the sprawling Cheow Lan Lake are often visible to the north of Phuket.
The Golden Triangle
The intersection where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet along the Mekong River.
Mekong River
Follow the winding path of the Mekong as it defines borders across Southeast Asia.
Dianchi Lake
The 'Sparkling Pearl' of the plateau, providing a breathtaking view just before landing at KMG.
The approach is the highlight; Dianchi Lake is massive and sits right on the path to Kunming Changshui. Sit on this side for the best sunlight during midday flights, as the sun will be mostly on the left side of the aircraft.
Phang Nga Bay
View the dramatic limestone karsts and emerald green waters of the bay shortly after departure.
Tenasserim Range
The rugged mountain border between Thailand and Myanmar stretching toward the horizon.
Nu/Salween River
The deep gorges of one of the longest free-flowing rivers in Asia as it snakes through the mountains.
Hengduan Mountains
High-altitude peaks and deep valleys marking the transition into the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.
Look out early for the karst formations. As the flight progresses into Yunnan, watch for the drastic change in soil color to deep red. Morning flights are recommended to avoid the frequent afternoon cloud cover over the mountains.
Distance: 1,951 km (1,212 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 36 min
Departure: HKT (8.1132, 98.316902)
Arrival: KMG (25.101944399999997, 102.9291667)
Route Type: International
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