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USM → UTP
Which side of the plane to sit from Samui Airport (Ko Samui) to U-Tapao International Airport (Pattaya)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic island views, including Ko Phangan and Ko Tao shortly after takeoff, followed by the scenic, protected naval islands near Sattahip during the descent.
Ko Samui Shoreline
Aerial views of the white sands of Choeng Mon and the Big Buddha temple immediately after departure.
Ko Phangan
A close-up view of Samui's neighbor, famous for its Full Moon parties and rugged interior.
Ko Tao
The silhouette of the world-famous diving island is visible on the horizon during the early cruise phase.
Ko Khram Yai
A large, uninhabited island under Royal Thai Navy protection featuring pristine turquoise waters.
Sattahip Naval Base
Strategic views of the Thai naval port and the rugged mountainous coastline of the Chonburi province.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is consistently better for spotting the Gulf's most famous islands. Keep your camera ready in the first 10 minutes and the last 15 minutes of the flight for the best photographic opportunities.
Gulf of Thailand
A vast, shimmering blue expanse that is particularly beautiful during mid-afternoon flights.
Map Ta Phut
The massive scale of Thailand's primary industrial heartland and port facility visible during the descent.
Rayong Beaches
Golden stretches of sand along the Ban Chang district as the aircraft aligns with the runway.
Shipping Lanes
Dozens of cargo ships and tankers anchored in the Gulf waiting to enter the eastern seaboard ports.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights, providing a dramatic view of the sun dipping into the Gulf. It offers a unique perspective of Thailand's industrial infrastructure near Rayong, which is spectacular when lit up during evening arrivals.
Distance: 363 km (226 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: USM (9.547789573669997, 100.06199646)
Arrival: UTP (12.67990016937256, 101.00499725341795)
Route Type: Domestic
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