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UPG → BPN
Which side of the plane to sit from Hasanuddin International Airport (Ujung Pandang) to Sultan Aji Muhamad Sulaiman Airport (Balikpapan)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this route as it provides an immediate, world-class view of the Maros Karst mountains after takeoff and a stunning panorama of Balikpapan Bay upon arrival.
Maros-Pangkep Karst
Breathtaking views of the world's second-largest limestone karst towers rising vertically from the green rice fields near UPG.
Great Spermonde Reefs
Clearer views of the northern islands of the Spermonde chain, featuring vibrant coral fringes and sandbars.
Pertamina Refinery
The massive industrial complex of the Balikpapan oil refinery is often visible during the final descent, looking like a miniature city.
Balikpapan Bay
A great perspective of the Balang Island Bridge and the busy waterway filled with coal barges and tankers.
Wain River Forest
Dense tropical mangrove and lowland forest patches visible just north of the Balikpapan urban area during landing.
Sit on the right for the Maros Karst view, which appears within the first 5-10 minutes of flight. Morning flights provide the best lighting for these mountains without the afternoon haze. On the approach to BPN, keep your window shade up for a dramatic turn over the bay that showcases the city's unique industrial-coastal blend.
Makassar Coastline
A sweeping view of the Losari Beach area and the urban density of South Sulawesi's capital during the initial climb.
Spermonde Archipelago
Distant views of small, circular coral atolls and turquoise reef systems scattered across the Makassar Strait.
Shipping Lanes
Observation of large cargo vessels and oil tankers navigating the busy maritime corridor between Sulawesi and Kalimantan.
Makassar Strait Sunset
If flying in the late afternoon, this side offers unobstructed views of the sun dipping into the horizon over the water.
The left side is best for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Makassar Strait. During the approach to Balikpapan, watch for the distant silhouettes of offshore oil platforms. Use a polarizing filter on your camera to cut through the sea haze for clearer island shots.
Distance: 515 km (320 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: UPG (-5.061629772186278, 119.5540008544922)
Arrival: BPN (-1.2682700157200002, 116.893997192)
Route Type: Domestic
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