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TWU → BKI
Which side of the plane to sit from Tawau Airport (Tawau) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (Kota Kinabalu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu and the rugged interior highlands of Sabah during the cruise and descent phases.
Tawau Hills Park
Rugged volcanic peaks and dense primary rainforest visible during the initial climb.
Mount Trusmadi
The sharp, jagged ridges of Malaysia's second highest peak often seen rising above the clouds.
Mount Kinabalu
The iconic granite crown of Borneo and a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is the highlight of the flight.
Crocker Range
Endless ridges of protected rainforest forming the mountainous backbone of the state.
Kundasang Highlands
The picturesque high-altitude vegetable farms and rolling hills at the foot of Mount Kinabalu.
Book a morning flight (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM) for the highest probability of seeing Mount Kinabalu without cloud cover. Request a window seat in the front third of the cabin to ensure an unobstructed view of the mountain massif away from the wing.
Tawau Waterfront
A view of the busy port area and the Celebes Sea immediately after takeoff.
Palm Oil Mosaic
The characteristic landscape of Sabah's lowlands with vast, geometric plantation patterns.
Kimanis Bay
The scenic coastline where the Crocker Range foothills meet the South China Sea.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Aerial views of Gaya, Manukan, and Sapi islands during the final approach to Kota Kinabalu.
Kota Kinabalu Skyline
A clear view of the city's waterfront, the floating mosque, and Sutera Harbour before touchdown.
The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the South China Sea. It also provides the best views of the tropical islands in the marine park during the landing sequence into BKI.
Distance: 292 km (181 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: TWU (4.320159912109375, 118.12799835205078)
Arrival: BKI (5.9372100830078125, 116.0510025024414)
Route Type: Domestic
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