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MDL → MYT
Which side of the plane to sit from Mandalay International Airport (Mandalay) to Myitkyina Airport (Myitkyina)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Irrawaddy River's intricate meanders and an excellent opportunity to spot the vast Indawgyi Lake, Southeast Asia's largest inland lake.
Mandalay Cityscape
Aerial view of the Mandalay Royal Palace and the golden pagodas dotting Mandalay Hill shortly after takeoff.
Irrawaddy Meanders
Continuous views of Myanmar's primary waterway as it winds through the northern plains.
Shwebo Basin
Expansive views of the central agricultural heartland with its distinct patchwork of rice paddies.
Indawgyi Lake
A glimpse of the massive UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, located west of the flight path in Kachin State.
Kachin Forested Hills
The transition from flat plains to the lush, densely forested hills that mark the northern territory.
Book a window seat on the left (Port side) for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, ensuring clear views of the river. Watch for Indawgyi Lake approximately 25-30 minutes after departure; its scale is best appreciated from high altitude. During the rainy season (June-October), the flooded riverbanks create spectacular silvery reflections.
Shan Plateau Edges
The dramatic rising terrain of the Shan Hills to the east, featuring limestone karsts and deep valleys.
Mogok Mountain Range
Distant views of the rugged mountains surrounding the legendary 'Valley of Rubies'.
Bhamo Floodplains
Vibrant green landscapes where the river valley narrows and the terrain becomes more vertical.
Himalayan Foothills
In clear winter weather, the distant snow-capped peaks of the far-northern Myanmar border may be visible.
Myitkyina Approach
A close-up view of the Kachin State capital and the Myit-son confluence as the plane descends.
The right side (Starboard) is fantastic for early morning departures to witness the sunrise over the Shan Plateau. It offers a more rugged mountainous perspective compared to the river-centric left side. Keep your camera ready during the final descent for views of the Taping River and the northernmost reaches of the Irrawaddy.
Distance: 433 km (269 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)
Arrival: MYT (25.38360023498535, 97.35189819335938)
Route Type: Domestic
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