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SWA → BKK
Which side of the plane to sit from Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport (Shantou) to Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a more diverse geographic experience, featuring the tropical terrain of Hainan Island, the dramatic Mekong River crossing, and the lush mountainous regions of Laos and Eastern Thailand.
Hainan Island
Aerial views of the eastern edge of Hainan, known for its volcanic landscape and tropical greenery.
Annamite Range
The mist-shrouded peaks and dense jungle canopy of the mountain range bordering Vietnam and Laos.
Mekong River Crossing
A spectacular view of the mighty Mekong River as it serves as a natural border between Laos and Thailand.
Isan Plateaus
The colorful patchwork of rice paddies in Northeast Thailand, which turn vibrant green during the rainy season.
Greater Bangkok
Detailed views of the urban sprawl, industrial estates, and the winding canals that define the outskirts of the capital.
The right side is best for morning flights as the sun will be on the opposite side of the plane, providing optimal lighting for photography. Keep a close watch about 60-70 minutes into the flight for the Mekong River crossing. For the best view of the Bangkok skyline during landing, check the wind direction; a North-to-South landing (Runway 19) typically provides a better city view from this side.
South China Sea
Expansive views of the deep blue waters shortly after the flight departs the Guangdong coastline.
Maritime Corridors
High-altitude views of major shipping lanes with cargo vessels visible as small specks on the water.
Central Vietnam Coast
Distant views of the sandy shorelines near Da Nang and the Son Tra Peninsula.
Gulf of Thailand
A shimmering expanse of water visible as the plane makes its final turn toward the Bangkok approach corridor.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the intense tropical sun, which will be positioned on the right. This side is also excellent for spotting the moon rising over the ocean during night flights. During the monsoon season (May to October), look for towering cumulonimbus clouds over the sea, which are particularly dramatic at sunset.
Distance: 1,988 km (1,235 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 39 min
Departure: SWA (23.552, 116.5033)
Arrival: BKK (13.681099891662598, 100.74700164794922)
Route Type: International
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