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SHL → CCU
Which side of the plane to sit from Shillong Airport (Shillong) to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic visual experience as the flight exits the high-altitude Khasi Hills, providing a breathtaking view of the sudden drop-off into the vast, water-rich plains of Bangladesh and the intricate Ganges Delta.
Umiam Lake
A stunning panoramic view of the 'Barapani' reservoir nestled among the emerald green hills immediately after departure.
Sylhet Border Transition
The dramatic geographic shift where the steep Meghalaya cliffs end abruptly, giving way to the flat floodplains of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh Wetlands
An endless patchwork of shimmering paddy fields and interconnected rural waterways stretching to the horizon.
The Padma River
A spectacular crossing of one of the widest river systems in the world, often dotted with traditional ferry boats.
New Town Skyline
The modern high-rises and planned urban layout of Kolkata's eastern fringes visible during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. Look down within the first 10 minutes to see the 'cliff effect' where India meets Bangladesh. During the monsoon season (June–September), this side offers views of countless seasonal waterfalls cascading down the Khasi hillsides.
Khasi Plateau
Bird's-eye view of the rugged, pine-covered ridges and deep limestone gorges characteristic of the Shillong region.
Orographic Clouds
Meghalaya's famous dense cloud banks often seen hugging the mountain peaks below the wingtip.
Hooghly River
The winding distributary of the Ganges that defines the western boundary of the Kolkata metropolitan area.
Salt Lake Stadium
The massive circular silhouette of one of India's largest stadiums as the plane aligns with the runway.
Industrial Belt
The sprawling industrial clusters and brick kilns of West Bengal visible as the altitude drops.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights to witness the 'Golden Hour' over the Bengal delta. On exceptionally clear winter days (December–January), you may catch a glimpse of the distant Himalayan peaks to the far north-west shortly after takeoff. Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of the winding Hooghly River isn't obstructed during the banking turns before landing.
Distance: 493 km (306 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: SHL (25.70359992980957, 91.97869873046876)
Arrival: CCU (22.654699325561523, 88.44670104980469)
Route Type: Domestic
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