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KULBPN

Our Recommendation
8.2

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏛️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Balikpapan
Route Information

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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