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MDC → SOQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Sam Ratulangi Airport (Manado) to Dominique Edward Osok Airport (Sorong)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic volcanic peaks of North Maluku and the world-renowned turquoise waters and limestone islands of the Raja Ampat archipelago during the descent.
Minahasa Volcanoes
Stunning views of the active volcanic peaks including Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu shortly after takeoff.
Ternate and Tidore
On clear days, the iconic volcanic cones of the Sultanate islands are visible rising sharply from the sea to the south.
Raja Ampat Islands
Breathtaking views of Waigeo and Batanta islands, featuring intricate karst formations and coral reefs.
Bird's Head Peninsula
The dense, prehistoric rainforests of West Papua coming into view as the aircraft crosses the coastline.
Karst Islets
Dozens of small, mushroom-shaped limestone islands scattered in the crystal-clear waters near Sorong.
The right side is essential for seeing the Raja Ampat islands during the final 20 minutes of the flight. For the best photography, book a flight departing Manado before 9:00 AM to capture the coral reefs with high-angle morning light. Be sure to look out for the distinct transition from the deep blue Molucca Sea to the light turquoise lagoons of the archipelago.
Molucca Sea
A vast expanse of deep blue water that forms part of the Coral Triangle, home to incredible marine biodiversity.
North Halmahera Coast
Views of the remote and rugged northern coastline of Halmahera Island with its hidden bays.
Sorong Port
Aerial perspective of the bustling maritime hub and gateway to the Indonesian Papua region.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the southern sun. This side offers better views of the open Pacific horizon and the northernmost reaches of the Maluku island chain. Watch for small remote atolls that dot the sea midway through the flight.
Distance: 758 km (471 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min
Departure: MDC (1.5492600202560425, 124.9260025024414)
Arrival: SOQ (-0.894, 131.287)
Route Type: Domestic
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