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ICN destination photo
BKI destination photo

ICNBKI

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior scenic experience, offering views of the volcanic landscapes of Jeju Island, the rugged Central Mountain Range of Taiwan, the northern Philippine archipelago, and a potential majestic view of Mount Kinabalu during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Jeju Island

View the distinct volcanic cone of Hallasan and the coastline of South Korea's favorite island shortly after departure.

🏔️

Taiwanese Highlands

The route often passes east of Taiwan, providing views of the high peaks of the Central Mountain Range piercing through the clouds.

🏝️

Luzon Archipelago

Observe the northern islands of the Philippines, including the jagged coastlines and emerald waters of the Babuyan Islands.

🌊

Palawan Coastline

Catch glimpses of the long, narrow island of Palawan, known for its limestone karsts and turquoise lagoons.

⛰️

Mount Kinabalu

On the final descent into BKI, the 4,095m granite peak of Mount Kinabalu often dominates the skyline on the left side of the aircraft.

For the best visibility, choose a daylight flight departing ICN in the morning. Seats ahead of the wing are preferred to avoid engine heat haze. Ensure your window is clean for photos of Taiwan's peaks mid-flight. During the descent into Kota Kinabalu, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks, offering a spectacular view of the Kinabalu massif against the sunrise or midday sky.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌉

Incheon Bridge

Immediately after takeoff, enjoy a bird's-eye view of one of the world's longest cable-stayed bridges connecting Incheon to Yeongjong Island.

🏙️

Yangtze River Delta

On clear days, the distant sprawl of the Shanghai metropolitan area and the massive sediment plumes of the Yangtze River can be seen.

⚓

South China Sea Shipping

Observe the dense maritime traffic and cargo vessels navigating the busy international shipping lanes toward the Malacca Strait.

🌅

South China Sea Sunset

On evening flights, the right side offers an unobstructed view of the sunset over the vast horizon of the South China Sea.

🏖️

Borneo Shoreline

During the final approach, see the white sand beaches and tropical islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the ocean. It offers a more tranquil, maritime view compared to the mountainous left side. If arriving at night, the right side provides a better view of the illuminated Kota Kinabalu city center and waterfront as the plane maneuvers for landing at BKI.

Top Activities in Kota Kinabalu
Route Information

Distance: 3,661 km (2,275 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 18 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)

Route Type: International

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