Loading map...
MNL → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more scenic experience by tracking closer to landmasses including the East Asian coastline, potential views of Japan's peaks, and the rugged North American West Coast upon arrival.
Cordillera Mountains
After takeoff from Manila, see the lush, rugged peaks of Northern Luzon as the plane heads north.
Taiwanese Coastline
Clear views of the steep cliffs and turquoise waters along Taiwan's dramatic eastern shore.
Mount Fuji
On routes passing near Honshu, Japan, the iconic snow-capped cone of Fuji is often visible in the distance.
Aleutian Chain
During the Great Circle arc, witness the remote, volcanic island chain of Alaska's Aleutian Islands.
Pacific Northwest
Views of the misty, forested coastlines of Oregon and Northern California during the descent phase.
Sit on the left for the best chance to spot land during the first 4 hours and the final 2 hours. If it is a daytime flight, the sun will be on the right side for most of the journey, making the left side better for photography without glare. Keep an eye out for Mount Fuji approximately 3.5 to 4 hours after departure.
Oceanic Sunrise
Since this flight travels east, you will experience a rapid and vibrant sunrise over the vast Pacific horizon.
Channel Islands
Aerial views of Santa Cruz and Anacapa Islands as the aircraft maneuvers for the approach into LAX.
Los Angeles Basin
A sprawling view of the city's grid, skyscrapers, and the Palos Verdes Peninsula just before landing.
Port of Long Beach
One of the world's busiest container ports visible on the final approach from the south/west.
The right side is ideal if you enjoy watching the sunrise over the ocean. On the final approach into LAX (typically landing to the east), the right side often provides a great view of the California coastline and the Palos Verdes hills. Be prepared for direct sunlight for a significant portion of the flight.
Distance: 11,740 km (7,295 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 49 min
Departure: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.