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MLG → CGK
Which side of the plane to sit from Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (Malang) to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled parade of Java's iconic volcanic peaks, including the Arjuno-Welirang complex, Merapi, Slamet, and Ciremai. This route provides a dramatic perspective of Indonesia's 'Ring of Fire' while traveling from East to West Java.
Arjuno-Welirang Complex
Immediately after takeoff from Malang, these twin volcanoes dominate the skyline with their rugged, jagged peaks.
Mount Merapi & Merbabu
Mid-flight, you will pass the perfectly conical Merapi, one of the world's most active volcanoes, paired with its neighbor Merbabu.
Mount Slamet
The highest peak in Central Java often pierces through the cloud layer, providing a majestic sight for passengers.
Mount Ciremai
A massive, solitary stratovolcano that marks the transition into West Java, standing tall near the city of Cirebon.
Javanese Highlands
Intricate patterns of terraced rice fields and lush green valleys that stretch across the island's mountainous interior.
For the most crisp and clear views of the volcanoes, book a morning flight (before 9:00 AM) to avoid the typical afternoon cloud buildup. Sitting on the left side during a morning flight also places the sun behind or above the plane, providing excellent front-lighting for photography of the mountain ridges.
Java Sea Coastline
Panoramic views of the northern coast of Java where the land meets the shallow, turquoise waters of the sea.
Tanjung Emas Port
A clear view of the bustling maritime activity and shipping containers at the major port of Semarang.
Northern Coastal Cities
Bird's-eye perspectives of the urban grids of Pekalongan, Tegal, and Cirebon along the 'Pantura' route.
Thousand Islands
During the descent into Jakarta, look out for the cluster of tropical islands known as Kepulauan Seribu scattered in the bay.
Jakarta Bay
Views of the massive reclamation projects, waterfront developments, and the Tanjung Priok port infrastructure.
The right side is preferable for afternoon flights to minimize direct sun glare and heat. On the final approach into CGK, the right side often provides a better view of the Java Sea and the archipelago north of Jakarta. Keep an eye out for the distinctive fish traps (bagang) dotting the shallow waters near the coast.
Distance: 698 km (434 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 10 min
Departure: MLG (-7.926559925079999, 112.714996338)
Arrival: CGK (-6.1255698204, 106.65599823)
Route Type: Domestic
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