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USM destination photo
HKT destination photo

USMHKT

Which side of the plane to sit from Samui Airport (Ko Samui) to Phuket International Airport (Phuket)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a front-row seat to the world-famous limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay during the final descent into Phuket.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏖️

Samui Coastline

A stunning perspective of Chaweng and Lamai beaches as the aircraft climbs away from the island.

🛶

Mu Ko Ang Thong

Distant views of the 42-island archipelago known for its hidden lagoons and emerald lakes.

🐍

Tapi River

The winding 'Serpent' river of Surat Thani snaking through the mainland toward the coast.

⛰️

Phang Nga Karsts

The highlight of the trip: dramatic limestone monoliths rising vertically from the emerald green sea.

🎬

James Bond Island Area

The cluster of iconic islands within the Ao Phang Nga National Park visible during the descent.

✈️

Mai Khao Beach

The final view of Phuket's northernmost beach as the plane touches down right over the sand.

This is the 'money' side for this route. Request a window seat on the right to see the dramatic karst formations. The best lighting is usually in the late afternoon when the sun illuminates the limestone cliffs.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏝️

Ko Pha-ngan

Aerial view of Samui's neighbor to the north, famous for its Full Moon parties and rugged coastline.

🌊

Gulf of Thailand

Deep turquoise waters stretching toward the horizon immediately after departure from USM.

🌳

Khao Sok Fringe

Views of the dense, ancient rainforest canopies of the Southern Thai mainland during the cruise phase.

🚤

Ko Yao Yai

A long, slender island in the middle of the Andaman Sea featuring traditional fishing villages.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare over the Gulf. It provides excellent views of the sister islands north of Samui immediately after takeoff.

Top Activities in Phuket
Route Information

Distance: 249 km (155 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: USM (9.547789573669997, 100.06199646)

Arrival: HKT (8.1132, 98.316902)

Route Type: Domestic

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