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SDK destination photo
BKI destination photo

SDKBKI

Our Recommendation
9.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a legendary, up-close view of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia outside the Himalayas, making it the clear choice for this short hop across Sabah.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
⚓

Sandakan Waterfront

Clear views of the Sandakan harbor and the historic city layout during the initial climb.

🏔️

Mount Kinabalu

The dramatic granite spires of the 4,095m peak appear mid-flight, often piercing through the cloud layer.

🌊

Northern Sabah Coastline

The rugged intersections of the Sulu Sea and the northern tip of Borneo's landmass.

🏝️

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Emerald islands like Gaya and Sapi surrounded by coral reefs visible during the final approach into BKI.

The right side is the 'gold standard' for this route. Sit here to see Mount Kinabalu. Book the earliest morning flight possible (around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM) because the mountain is notoriously prone to being shrouded in thick clouds by midday. Ensure your window is clean for high-altitude photography of the granite peaks.

Left Side Highlights
6.7
🌿

Labuk Bay Wetlands

Intricate networks of mangrove forests and waterways visible shortly after departure from Sandakan.

⛰️

Crocker Range Ridges

The rolling green peaks of the Crocker Range biosphere reserve stretching toward the southern horizon.

🏗️

Putatan and Penampang

Bird's-eye view of the southern suburbs and developing landscapes of the West Coast as the plane descends.

The left side is best for observing the dense, inland rainforest canopies of central Sabah. To see the terrain clearly, opt for a flight before 10:00 AM before the heat creates a hazy tropical mist over the forest floor.

Top Activities in Kota Kinabalu
Route Information

Distance: 222 km (138 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 22 min

Departure: SDK (5.900899887084961, 118.05899810791016)

Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)

Route Type: Domestic

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