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MNL → TPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic mountain ranges of both Northern Luzon and the central spine of Taiwan, including views of Northeast Asia's highest peaks.
Manila Skyline
Clear views of the Makati and BGC skyscrapers immediately after departing from MNL.
Mount Arayat
The solitary peak rising sharply from the flat plains of Central Luzon is a prominent landmark.
Cordillera Mountains
The rugged green peaks of Northern Luzon, including the high-altitude landscapes of Benguet.
Batanes Archipelago
On clear days, the emerald-green islands of Batan and Itbayat appear as jewels in the Luzon Strait.
Taiwan Central Range
Spectacular views of Yushan (Jade Mountain), the highest peak in Taiwan, often poking through the clouds.
Sit on the right for morning flights to avoid direct glare while seeing the mountains illuminated. Look out for Yushan as you cross into Taiwan's airspace; it is the most iconic sight on this route. If the plane approaches TPE from the north, you might also catch a glimpse of Taipei 101 in the distance.
Manila Bay
Aerial view of the massive harbor and the historic Corregidor Island during the initial climb.
Mount Pinatubo
The famous volcanic crater and its surrounding ash-covered valleys are visible shortly after takeoff.
Lingayen Gulf
The distinct crescent coastline of Pangasinan and the Hundred Islands National Park.
Taiwan West Coast Cities
Panoramic views of the dense urban sprawl of Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Taichung along the coast.
Taiwan Strait
Endless blue horizons and the busy shipping lanes connecting the East and South China Seas.
Choose the left side for sunset flights to enjoy the sun dipping into the Taiwan Strait. This side is also better for spotting the unique geography of the Hundred Islands in the Philippines and the massive industrial ports of Southern Taiwan during the descent.
Distance: 1,175 km (730 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Arrival: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Route Type: International
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