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JNB â HKG
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Hong Kong International Airport (Hong Kong)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Madagascar highlands, the coastline of Southeast Asia, and the iconic Hong Kong skyline during the standard approach into HKG.
Madagascar Central Highlands
Dramatic views of the rugged, red-soiled interior of Madagascar early in the flight.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Depending on the northern corridor used, these remote islands may appear as emerald gems in the Indian Ocean.
Gulf of Thailand
Scanning the coastline of Thailand and Cambodia as the flight crosses into Southeast Asia.
Pearl River Delta
The massive urban sprawl of the Greater Bay Area, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou, comes into view before landing.
Victoria Harbour
The quintessential view of Hong Kong's skyscrapers if the flight approaches from the west on Runway 07.
Book a window seat on the left (Seat A) for the best chance of seeing the Hong Kong skyline during descent. Since these flights often depart JNB in the afternoon, you will witness the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Use a flight tracker to see if the route crosses directly over Madagascar, which usually happens 2-3 hours after takeoff.
Southern Indian Ocean
Vast stretches of deep blue water with unique maritime cloud formations.
Indian Ocean Sunrise
Spectacular sunrise views over the horizon as the plane travels northeast.
South China Sea Shipping
Dozens of cargo ships and tankers queued up near one of the world's busiest maritime hubs.
Tian Tan Buddha
On the final approach to Lantau Island, you can often spot the 'Big Buddha' statue perched on the mountainside.
The right side (Seat K) is ideal for capturing the sunrise over the ocean. While there is less land to see during the cruise, the final approach into HKG often provides a close-up look at the rugged peaks of Lantau Island and the engineering marvel of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge.
Distance: 10,675 km (6,633 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 34 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: HKG (22.308901, 113.915001)
Route Type: International
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