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KUL → BPN
Which side of the plane to sit from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Kuala Lumpur) to Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (Balikpapan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior vantage point for the approach into Balikpapan, showcasing the city's industrial waterfront, Balikpapan Bay, and the dense, winding river systems of the Borneo interior.
Putrajaya Architecture
Views of Malaysia's administrative capital and its iconic pink mosque shortly after takeoff.
Kapuas River System
The massive, serpentine rivers of West Kalimantan winding through deep jungle terrain.
Borneo Rainforest Canopy
An endless carpet of green biodiversity stretching across the heart of the island.
Balikpapan Oil Hub
The impressive industrial landscape of Pertamina refineries and the busy harbor during final approach.
Makassar Strait
Views of large coal and oil tankers anchored in the deep waters of the bay.
The right side is spectacular during late afternoon flights for watching the sun set over the Makassar Strait. Ensure you have your camera ready during the final 10 minutes for the dramatic industrial skyline of the city.
Straits of Malacca
Aerial view of the world's busiest shipping lane immediately after departure from KUL.
South China Sea Islands
Glimpses of remote tropical islands and offshore oil platforms during the mid-flight ocean crossing.
Sarawak Coastline
The rugged transition where the turquoise sea meets the sandy shores of East Malaysia.
Kutai National Park
Vast stretches of protected lowland rainforest visible as the flight enters East Kalimantan airspace.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun. During the descent, watch for the distinct sediment plumes where the Mahakam River delta meets the sea.
Distance: 1,746 km (1,085 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min
Departure: KUL (2.7455799579619997, 101.70999908446998)
Arrival: BPN (-1.2682700157200002, 116.893997192)
Route Type: International
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