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MNL destination photo
BKI destination photo

MNLBKI

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the stunning island chains of Palawan and the beautiful approach into Kota Kinabalu over the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Corregidor Island

A clear view of the historic tadpole-shaped fortress island guarding the entrance to Manila Bay.

🏖️

Palawan Archipelago

Stunning aerial views of the world-famous limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of northern Palawan.

🌊

Linapacan Islands

Remote island clusters known for having some of the clearest waters in the world.

🚤

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

A breathtaking view of Gaya, Sapi, and Manukan islands just moments before landing at BKI.

🏢

Kota Kinabalu City

A detailed look at the Sabah State Mosque and the modern city skyline during the final descent.

The right side is the definitive choice for scenic photography of Palawan's unique geography. For the best views of the islands near Kota Kinabalu, try to book a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed downward view during the low-altitude approach.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Manila Bay

Vibrant views of the Cavite coastline and the busy shipping lanes of the Philippine capital's harbor.

🏔️

Mount Halcon

The towering 2,586-meter peak of Mindoro Island, often piercing through the morning cloud cover.

🪸

Apo Reef

The world's second-largest contiguous coral reef system, visible as a bright turquoise gem in the Sulu Sea.

🌳

Sabah Rainforests

The dense tropical greenery of northern Borneo as the flight crosses into Malaysian airspace.

🗻

Mount Kinabalu

On clear days during the approach, look far inland to spot the jagged granite peaks of Southeast Asia's highest mountain.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct western sun. This side is also better for spotting the silhouette of Mount Kinabalu far in the distance if the flight path remains coastal.

Top Activities in Kota Kinabalu
Route Information

Distance: 1,097 km (682 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min

Departure: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)

Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)

Route Type: International

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