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MYT → MDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Myitkyina Airport (Myitkyina) to Mandalay International Airport (Mandalay)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers continuous views of the majestic Irrawaddy River as it meanders through the central plains, providing a front-row seat to the Sagaing Hills and ancient pagodas during the descent into Mandalay.
Irrawaddy River Meanders
Spectacular views of the massive river snaking through the landscape with shifting sandbars and river traffic.
Katha Township
The historic riverside town made famous by George Orwell's 'Burmese Days' is clearly visible on the west bank.
Sagaing Pagodas
Dozens of shimmering gold and white stupas dotting the emerald green ridges as you approach the airport.
Mingun Pahtodawgyi
The enormous brick remains of an unfinished stupa, one of the largest archaeological sites in the region.
Central Dry Zone
The landscape transitions into the characteristic agricultural patchwork of Upper Burma's heartland.
The right side is essential for the best river views. For the most dramatic lighting on the golden pagodas of Sagaing, take a mid-to-late afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the hills from the west. During the monsoon season (June-September), this side offers great views of the flooded plains.
Shan Plateau Foothills
Rugged views of the eastern highlands where the terrain transitions from the Himalayan foothills to the Shan State.
Taping River Junction
Aerial perspective of the confluence near Bhamo where significant tributaries feed into the main river system.
Mogok Mountain Range
Distant glimpses of the jagged peaks surrounding the world-famous ruby mining region to the southeast.
Choose the left side for morning flights to see the sun rising over the Shan Hills, though glare can be intense. This side provides a better view of the dense forest canopies and remote mountain settlements in the first half of the trip.
Distance: 433 km (269 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: MYT (25.38360023498535, 97.35189819335938)
Arrival: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)
Route Type: Domestic
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