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SIN destination photo
USM destination photo

SIN β†’ USM

Which side of the plane to sit from Singapore Changi Airport (Singapore) to Samui Airport (Ko Samui)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the lush Titiwangsa mountain range of Malaysia and the iconic limestone archipelagos of the Ang Thong National Marine Park during the descent into Koh Samui.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
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Singapore Straits

Aerial view of the massive container ships and tankers anchored south of Singapore shortly after takeoff.

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Titiwangsa Mountains

The rugged, jungle-clad central mountain range of Peninsular Malaysia provides a dramatic backdrop for the mid-flight duration.

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Lake Kenyir

The largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, recognizable by its sprawling, intricate shorelines and numerous islands.

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Mu Ko Ang Thong

Stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters of the National Marine Park visible during the initial descent.

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Gulf of Thailand Sunset

On late afternoon flights, the left side offers spectacular sunset views over the water and distant mainland.

Book an 'A' window seat for the best panoramic views. On the descent into Samui, keep your camera ready as the plane often banks over the Ang Thong islands. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, making it better for photography. Mid-day flights offer the best water clarity and color saturation for the reefs below.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
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South China Sea

Expansive views of the turquoise waters transitioning into the deeper blues of the South China Sea.

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Terengganu Coastline

Bird's-eye view of the white sandy beaches and coastal villages along the eastern edge of Malaysia.

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Offshore Oil Rigs

Tiny industrial specks in the Gulf of Thailand, often visible as the flight path crosses active energy fields.

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Big Buddha Statue

As the plane approaches the runway from the north, the famous gold statue at Wat Phra Yai is often visible.

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Samui Airport Gardens

View of the world-renowned open-air terminal and its tropical landscaping during the final taxi to the gate.

The right side is excellent for morning flights if you enjoy watching the sunrise over the ocean. When landing on Runway 17 (the most common approach), seats on the right provide a closer view of the northeastern Samui shoreline and the Big Buddha temple. Be aware that the afternoon sun can be quite intense on this side, often requiring the window shade to be lowered.

Top Activities in Ko Samui
Route Information

Distance: 1,010 km (628 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: SIN (1.35019, 103.994003)

Arrival: USM (9.547789573669997, 100.06199646)

Route Type: International

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