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PEN destination photo
BKI destination photo

PENBKI

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior perspective for the approach into Kota Kinabalu, featuring the iconic islands of the Marine Park and the majestic silhouette of Mount Kinabalu on the horizon.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

Penang Bridges

Aerial views of both the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge and the original Penang Bridge shortly after takeoff.

🌊

South China Sea

Expansive views of the deep blue sea, often dotted with cargo ships and fishing vessels along the major shipping lane.

🏝️

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Stunning views of Gaya, Sapi, and Manukan islands with their surrounding coral reefs during the final descent.

⛰️

Mount Kinabalu

On clear days, the highest peak in Southeast Asia is visible in the distance as the aircraft aligns with the BKI runway.

🏙️

Kota Kinabalu Skyline

A close-up view of the city's waterfront, the Likas dome mosque, and urban development against the coastal backdrop.

Book an afternoon flight for the best lighting on the islands and Mount Kinabalu without harsh glare. The left side is preferred for the standard landing approach (Runway 02), which sweeps past the city. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing as the descent over the marine park happens quickly.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌳

Perak Coastline

Views of the lush mangrove forests and river estuaries of the Malaysian peninsula shortly after departure.

🛢️

Offshore Oil Rigs

Opportunities to spot active petroleum platforms and support vessels in the productive waters of the South China Sea.

🏖️

Sarawak Shoreline

Distant views of the rugged coastline of northern Sarawak as the flight paths toward the Sabah border.

✈️

BKI Terminal Approach

A direct view of the airport infrastructure and the Putatan district during the final seconds of the landing.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct tropical sun. While it misses the primary mountain views, it offers better perspectives of the inland Crocker Range mountains during the final approach if the wind dictates a northern landing. Watch for the interesting patterns of silt where rivers meet the sea along the Borneo coast.

Top Activities in Kota Kinabalu
Route Information

Distance: 1,747 km (1,086 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 20 min

Departure: PEN (5.297140121459961, 100.2770004272461)

Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)

Route Type: Domestic

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