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UPG → PLW
Which side of the plane to sit from Hasanuddin International Airport (Ujung Pandang) to Mutiara Airport (Palu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning combination of the Spermonde coral islands, the vast Makassar Strait, and the dramatic coastal entry into the deep, narrow Palu Bay.
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Spermonde Archipelago
Dozens of small coral islands and turquoise reefs dotting the sea just north of Makassar.
Makassar Strait
Expansive views of the deep blue waters that separate Sulawesi from Borneo.
West Sulawesi Coastline
A rugged coastline featuring a mix of steep cliffs and hidden sandy beaches near Mamuju.
Palu Bay Approach
Dramatic entry into the long, narrow bay where the mountains meet the sea.
Western Headlands
Jagged geological formations guarding the western entrance to the Palu rift valley.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. The descent into Palu Bay is often windy; the left side provides the best perspective of the plane's alignment with the valley floor. Choose a seat ahead of the wing for unobstructed views of the coral reefs during departure.
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Latimojong Range
Views of the high peaks of South Sulawesi, including Mount Rantemario in the distance.
Central Sulawesi Jungle
Lush, dense tropical rainforests covering the interior mountains of the island.
Palu Cityscape
A bird's-eye view of the city nestled tightly between high mountain walls.
The Palu Rift
Visible evidence of the Palu-Koro fault line that created this unique dry valley.
Mount Gawalise
The massive, imposing mountain range that frames the eastern side of the airport approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the deep green valleys and mountain textures. Watch for the sharp contrast between the lush mountains and the surprisingly arid climate of the Palu valley floor during the final approach.
Book Hotels in PaluDistance: 462 km (287 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: UPG (-5.061629772186278, 119.5540008544922)
Arrival: PLW (-0.9185420274734496, 119.91000366210938)
Route Type: Domestic
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