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SPN β CAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Saipan International Airport (Saipan) to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Guangzhou)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unrivaled view of Saipan's turquoise lagoon upon departure and typically provides a more dramatic perspective of the Pearl River Delta urban sprawl, including Hong Kong, during the descent into Guangzhou.
Managaha Island
Often visible immediately after departure, this tiny islet is surrounded by a stunning white sand perimeter and neon-blue lagoon.
Farallon de Medinilla
On a clear day, the northern volcanic islands of the Mariana arc can be seen dotting the horizon to the north.
Luzon Strait
Observe one of the world's busiest shipping lanes between Taiwan and the Philippines, dotted with massive cargo ships.
Hong Kong Skyline
As the flight enters the Pearl River Delta, the massive urban clusters of Lantau Island and the New Territories are visible.
Canton Tower
On the final descent into CAN, the iconic LED-lit tower and the central business district of Guangzhou dominate the view.
The right side is essential for seeing Saipanβs famous lagoon after takeoff. For evening arrivals, this side provides the best views of the light shows in Hong Kong and Shenzhen. In the summer, look for towering cumulonimbus clouds over the South China Sea, which are common during typhoon season.
Tinian Island
Visible shortly after takeoff, look for the historic North Field and the distinct coastline of Saipan's neighbor to the south.
Philippine Sea
Deep cobalt blue waters over some of the deepest parts of the Pacific Ocean as you cross the Mariana Trench zone.
Sierra Madre Mountains
As the flight crosses Northern Luzon, the rugged, lush green peaks of the Philippines' longest mountain range appear.
Scarborough Shoal
Depending on the specific ATC routing, this remote coral reef atoll may be visible in the middle of the South China Sea.
Macau Peninsula
During the final approach, the high-density casinos and the Macau Tower are frequently visible on the left side.
Sit on the left for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid harsh glare. This side is also superior for viewing the northern coastline of the Philippines. During winter months, this side may experience more cloud cover due to the northeast monsoon.
Distance: 3,518 km (2,186 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 8 min
Departure: SPN (15.119000000000002, 145.729004)
Arrival: CAN (23.39240074157715, 113.29900360107422)
Route Type: International
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