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MDC destination photo
SOQ destination photo

MDCSOQ

Our Recommendation
9.2

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.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌋

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Sorong
Route Information

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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