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LAO destination photo
MNL destination photo

LAOMNL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of coastal geography and dramatic volcanic features, including the stunning Ilocos shoreline, the vast Lingayen Gulf, and the crater of Mount Pinatubo during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Paoay Sand Dunes

Shortly after takeoff, see the unique desert-like coastal landscape of Ilocos Norte meeting the West Philippine Sea.

🌊

Lingayen Gulf

A massive semicircular bay known for its historical significance and scattered islands along the Pangasinan coast.

🌋

Mount Pinatubo

The famous volcano and its rugged, lahar-scarred valleys are clearly visible when flying over the Zambales range.

🚢

Manila Bay

Watch ships dotting the water as the plane maneuvers over the bay for its final landing approach.

⛰️

Bataan Peninsula

The mountainous silhouette of Bataan and the entrance to Manila Bay are visible during the descent.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to catch spectacular sunsets over the South China Sea. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes into the flight for the best views of Mount Pinatubo's crater and surrounding canyons.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Cordillera Central

View the massive mountain range of northern Luzon, home to the country's highest peaks and rugged terrain.

🏛️

Vigan Heritage City

Spot the grid-like streets of the historic Spanish colonial city shortly after departure from Laoag.

🌋

Mount Arayat

A solitary extinct volcano rising sharply from the flat plains of Central Luzon, providing a striking landmark.

🏙️

Quezon City Skyline

As you descend into Manila, the sprawling urban landscape and high-rises of the northern capital region appear.

💧

Laguna de Bay

The largest lake in the Philippines is visible to the east during the final approach into NAIA.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Cordilleras. It also offers a better view of Mount Arayat standing alone in the Pampanga plains. This side avoids the direct afternoon glare of the tropical sun.

Top Activities in Manila
Route Information

Distance: 411 km (255 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 41 min

Departure: LAO (18.1781005859375, 120.53199768066406)

Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)

Route Type: Domestic

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