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SZX → BKI
Which side of the plane to sit from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (Shenzhen) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning departure view of the Hong Kong skyline and the premier opportunity to spot Mount Kinabalu during the descent into Sabah.
Hong Kong Skyline
Aerial views of Lantau Island and the distant skyscrapers of Hong Kong shortly after departure from Shenzhen.
Wanshan Archipelago
A dense cluster of rugged islands scattered across the Pearl River Estuary as the plane heads south.
Paracel Islands
Depending on the specific airway, the deep blue of the South China Sea is dotted with remote coral atolls.
Mount Kinabalu
The majestic granite peaks of Southeast Asia's highest mountain visible inland during the arrival sequence.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
The coastal urban sprawl of Sabah's capital city framed against the lush green Crocker Range mountains.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see Mount Kinabalu; however, clouds often cover the peak after 10:00 AM, so early morning flights are highly recommended. During departure from SZX, the left side usually provides a superior view of the massive infrastructure projects in the Pearl River Delta.
Macau & Zhuhai
Views of the Cotai Strip and the impressive Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge shortly after takeoff.
Hainan Island Coast
The distant eastern shoreline of China's tropical island province is often visible on clear days.
Deep Sea Shipping
One of the world's busiest maritime lanes with numerous cargo ships transiting the South China Sea.
Marine Park Islands
The turquoise waters and coral reefs of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park just before touchdown.
Gaya Island
The largest of the five islands near Kota Kinabalu, featuring dense rainforest and floating villages.
The right side is the preferred choice for sunset flights, offering spectacular views of the sun dipping into the South China Sea. On the final approach into BKI, keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant turquoise shallows around the offshore islands which are much closer to the right side of the aircraft.
Distance: 1,873 km (1,164 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 30 min
Departure: SZX (22.639299392700195, 113.81099700927734)
Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Route Type: International
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