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RGN → MDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Yangon International Airport (Yangon) to Mandalay International Airport (Mandalay)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the winding Irrawaddy River and the scenic Sagaing Hills during the descent into Mandalay.
Yangon Urban Skyline
Aerial view of the Shwedagon Pagoda shimmering in the distance shortly after takeoff from RGN.
Irrawaddy River Meanders
The massive Irrawaddy River appears as a silver ribbon snaking through the central Myanmar plains.
Sagaing Hills
Dotted with countless white and gold stupas, these hills provide a spiritual landscape during the final approach.
Central Dry Zone
Geometric patterns of agricultural fields transitioning from lush green to earthy browns depending on the season.
Mingun Pahtodawgyi
On a clear approach, the massive unfinished brick stupa of Mingun can be spotted north of Mandalay.
Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the river. Morning flights (07:00-09:00) offer the clearest visibility before heat haze develops over the plains. During the monsoon season (June-October), the landscape is vibrantly green, but clouds may block the view.
Yangon-Mandalay Expressway
Follow the modern artery of Myanmar as it cuts a straight line through the rural landscape.
Shan Plateau Edge
The rising elevations of the Shan Hills provide a rugged backdrop to the east throughout the flight.
Meiktila Lake
A prominent water feature located roughly halfway through the flight, surrounded by dense settlements.
U Bein Bridge
If the aircraft approaches MDL from the south, look for the world's longest teak bridge crossing Taungthaman Lake.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct transition where the flat plains meet the sharp rise of the eastern mountain ranges. This side often provides a better perspective of the vast highway network connecting the two major cities.
Distance: 533 km (331 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 53 min
Departure: RGN (16.907300949099998, 96.1332015991)
Arrival: MDL (21.70219993591309, 95.97789764404295)
Route Type: Domestic
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