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VDH → HAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Dong Hoi Airport (Dong Hoi) to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the rugged Annamite Range and the breathtaking limestone karst formations of Ninh Binh during the descent into the Red River Delta.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang
The edges of the UNESCO-listed karst national park are visible shortly after departure from Dong Hoi.
Annamite Range
Continuous views of the dense, jungle-covered mountains forming the natural border between Vietnam and Laos.
Ninh Binh Karsts
The 'Ha Long Bay on Land' features dramatic limestone pillars rising sharply from emerald green rice paddies.
Day River
The winding path of the Day River as it snakes through the northern agricultural heartland.
Hanoi Suburbs
The dense urban sprawl and industrial development of the southern Hanoi districts during final approach.
The left side is superior for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing better lighting for photography of the Ninh Binh karsts. Watch closely about 20-25 minutes into the flight for the transition from rugged mountains to the flat, mountain-studded plains of Ha Nam and Ninh Binh. During winter months (December-February), the mountains may be obscured by low clouds or mist, making the lower altitude karst views even more dramatic.
Central Coastline
Views of the white sand beaches and turquoise waters stretching north from Dong Hoi toward Ha Tinh.
Cua Lo Estuary
The busy fishing ports and river mouths near Vinh city, often dotted with colorful local boats.
Red River Delta
A vast, intricate patchwork of rice fields, irrigation canals, and small villages characteristic of Northern Vietnam.
Gulf of Tonkin
On clear days, the distant horizon of the Gulf of Tonkin is visible with various cargo vessels.
Red River Bridges
Modern engineering marvels like the Nhat Tan Bridge may be visible depending on the specific landing pattern at Noi Bai.
The right side is best for morning flights to capture the sun reflecting off the water in the rice paddies and the Gulf of Tonkin. As the flight progresses north, look for the intricate geometric patterns of the dikes and water management systems that have defined the Red River Delta for centuries. If the plane approaches HAN from the east, you might catch a distant glimpse of the Ha Long Bay coastline.
Distance: 420 km (261 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: VDH (17.515, 106.590556)
Arrival: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Route Type: Domestic
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