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MNL → ZAM
Which side of the plane to sit from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) to Zamboanga International Airport (Zamboanga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior sequence of iconic island geography, featuring the volcanic peaks of Southern Luzon and a stunning view of the pink sands of Great Santa Cruz Island upon arrival.
Search flights from MNL to ZAM
Mount Banahaw
A majestic three-peaked volcano visible shortly after departing the Manila airspace over the CALABARZON region.
Marinduque Island
The heart-shaped island province is clearly visible as the flight path crosses the Sibuyan Sea.
Negros Occidental Coast
Lush green views of the sugar capital of the Philippines and the rugged mountains of the western Visayas.
Great Santa Cruz Island
On final approach to Zamboanga, the left side provides a world-class view of the famous pink sand beach and turquoise lagoons.
Basilan Strait
A busy maritime channel separating the Zamboanga Peninsula from the Basilan island group.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. On morning flights, the sun is on the left, so expect some glare; however, the view of Great Santa Cruz Island during the descent into ZAM is a must-see that outweighs the glare. Keep your camera ready about 10-15 minutes before landing.
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Manila Bay & Cavite
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy views of the busy shipping lanes and the historical coastline of Cavite.
Apo Reef (Distal)
On clear days, the shimmering reefs off the coast of Mindoro can be spotted in the distance to the west.
Sulu Sea Horizon
A vast, deep blue expanse punctuated by occasional remote fishing vessels and small atolls.
Zamboanga Peninsula Ridge
The dense, tropical rainforests and jagged mountain spine of the peninsula as the plane nears the destination.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights as the sun will be behind the plane or setting to the west, providing excellent lighting for the Sulu Sea. It is generally a more tranquil view dominated by open water until the descent phase when the Zamboanga coastline appears.
Book Hotels in ZamboangaDistance: 851 km (529 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Arrival: ZAM (6.922420024871826, 122.05999755859376)
Route Type: Domestic
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