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UPG → MDC
Which side of the plane to sit from Hasanuddin International Airport (Ujung Pandang) to Sam Ratulangi Airport (Manado)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of Sulawesi's rugged geography, the Right Side provides a superior look at the island's interior mountain ranges, the unique Lake Tempe, and the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Minahasa highland during the descent into Manado.
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Lake Tempe
A vast, shallow wetland system famous for its floating houses, clearly visible from high altitude.
Mount Latimojong
Views of the highest massif in Sulawesi, with peaks often rising above the morning cloud layer.
Tana Toraja Highlands
The rugged, mist-filled valleys of the central interior, home to unique cultural landscapes.
Gulf of Bone
Aerial perspective of the massive gulf that separates the southern and southeastern peninsulas.
Minahasa Volcanic Arc
Dramatic close-up views of Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu during the final approach into Manado.
Bitung & Lembeh
Just before landing, you can often spot the narrow Lembeh Strait and the port city of Bitung to the east.
The right side is highly recommended for morning flights to see the sun illuminate the Toraja highlands. Pay close attention during the last 15 minutes of the flight; the descent into MDC often passes very close to active volcanoes, providing world-class photography opportunities.
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Makassar Strait
Clear views of the deep blue strait and the scattered Spermonde Archipelago shortly after departure.
Maros Karst
The spectacular limestone towers of Rammang-Rammang are visible just north of the airport.
West Sulawesi Coastline
A continuous view of the white sand beaches and coral reefs lining the western edge of the island.
Gulf of Tomini
As the flight crosses the central 'neck' of Sulawesi, you see the vast, calm waters of this deep-sea gulf.
Gorontalo Peninsula
The rugged northern coastline where the mountains meet the Celebes Sea in a dramatic vertical drop.
Sit on the left if you are flying in the late afternoon to catch a stunning sunset over the Makassar Strait. During the initial climb, look down to see the intricate river patterns of the Maros regency winding through rice fields.
Get eSIMs for Indonesia
Get eSIMs for IndonesiaDistance: 947 km (588 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: UPG (-5.061629772186278, 119.5540008544922)
Arrival: MDC (1.5492600202560425, 124.9260025024414)
Route Type: Domestic
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