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SUB → TPE
Which side of the plane to sit from Juanda International Airport (Surabaya) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (Starboard) is generally superior for this route as it offers breathtaking views of the Philippine archipelago, specifically the Palawan and Luzon regions, and provides a spectacular panorama of Taiwan's rugged Central Mountain Range during the descent into Taoyuan.
Madura Island
Immediate views of the salt pans and traditional fishing villages of Madura right after takeoff.
Palawan Archipelago
Stunning views of the limestone cliffs and coral reefs surrounding the northern tip of Palawan, Philippines.
Luzon Volcanoes
Views of the mountainous terrain and volcanic silhouettes of the northern Philippines.
Babuyan Islands
Remote and rugged volcanic islands located in the strait between the Philippines and Taiwan.
Central Mountain Range
A magnificent view of Taiwan's 3,000-meter peaks as the plane aligns for its final approach.
TPE Approach
Visuals of the dense urban sprawl and greenery of northern Taiwan during the landing sequence.
This is the 'scenic side.' For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Philippine islands and Taiwan's mountains perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 2.5 to 3 hours into the flight for the clearest views of the Philippine coastline. Be aware that seasonal monsoons may bring cloud cover over Luzon from June to October.
East Java Volcanoes
Distant views of the smoking peaks of the Tengger massif shortly after departure from Surabaya.
Java Sea Crossing
Vast turquoise waters and small Indonesian atolls during the first hour of flight.
West Kalimantan Coast
Aerial perspective of the dense mangrove forests and winding river deltas of western Borneo.
South China Sea Lanes
Observation of major international shipping lanes with numerous cargo vessels and tankers.
Taoyuan Coastal Turbines
A view of the massive offshore wind farms and the industrial coastline of western Taiwan upon arrival.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It offers a more serene, oceanic experience, though it lacks the dramatic island topography found on the opposite side. Watch for the 'shadow' of the Borneo coastline on the horizon about 90 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 3,723 km (2,313 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 23 min
Departure: SUB (-7.379829883575439, 112.78700256347656)
Arrival: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Route Type: International
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