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TWU destination photo
SDK destination photo

TWUSDK

Which side of the plane to sit from Tawau Airport (Tawau) to Sandakan Airport (Sandakan)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Sulu Sea coastline, the intricate Kinabatangan River delta, and a stunning final approach over Sandakan Bay and its iconic sandstone cliffs.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Cowie Bay

Beautiful coastal vistas of the border waters between Malaysia and Indonesia immediately after departure.

🐘

Tabin Coastal Fringe

Massive stretches of primary rainforest and mangroves that form part of the Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

🌿

Kinabatangan Delta

View the complex network of channels and estuaries where the great river empties into the Sulu Sea.

🚤

Sandakan Bay

A panoramic view of the bustling harbor, maritime traffic, and traditional water villages.

🏝️

Berhala Island

The most iconic sight on this route, featuring dramatic red sandstone cliffs rising from the sea.

The right side is essential for the scenic arrival into Sandakan. Keep your camera ready during the last five minutes of the flight for the best shots of Sandakan Bay and Berhala Island. This is a very short flight, often under 40 minutes, so stay alert from takeoff to landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Tawau Hills Park

Shortly after takeoff, look for the rugged volcanic peaks and dense rainforest of this inland park.

🐍

Upper Kinabatangan

Spot the winding brown coils of Malaysia's second-longest river as it snakes through the jungle.

🪨

Gomantong Karst

Look for the limestone outcrops in the distance, home to the famous bird's nest caves.

🏗️

Sandakan Town

Aerial views of the urban sprawl and hills as the plane aligns for the final runway approach.

Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion. Morning flights provide the best light for photos of the inland mountain ranges before clouds form.

Top Activities in Sandakan
Route Information

Distance: 176 km (109 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: TWU (4.320159912109375, 118.12799835205078)

Arrival: SDK (5.900899887084961, 118.05899810791016)

Route Type: Domestic

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