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VTE → HAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Wattay International Airport (Vientiane) to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a dramatic view of the Hoa Binh reservoir's turquoise waters and offers a better angle for viewing Hanoi's lake-filled urban landscape during the final approach.
Mekong River
The winding border between Laos and Thailand visible as the plane climbs out of Vientiane.
Annamite Mountains
Lush, densely forested ridges that mark the natural border between Laos and Vietnam.
Hoa Binh Reservoir
A massive, bright blue man-made lake surrounded by steep karst hills, one of the most scenic points of the flight.
Hanoi West Lake
The largest lake in Hanoi, providing a stunning visual landmark as the plane aligns for landing at Noi Bai.
Red River Delta
A vast patchwork of vibrant green rice paddies and winding brown rivers as you approach the Vietnamese capital.
Sit here for the best views of the Hoa Binh reservoir and the Hanoi city center. On clear days, the descent over the Red River Delta is spectacular. Afternoon flights offer excellent lighting on the mountainside features without glare.
Vientiane Cityscape
Aerial views of the Lao capital including the Patuxai monument and the golden That Luang stupa shortly after takeoff.
Mount Phu Bia
The highest peak in Laos, often visible to the north as you cross the rugged highlands of the Annamite Range.
Nam Ngum Lake
A sprawling blue reservoir punctuated by numerous small islands, set against a backdrop of dense tropical forests.
Limestone Karsts
Dramatic, sharp limestone peaks characteristic of Northern Laos and the border region with Vietnam.
Mountain Passes
The winding roads of the northern Lao provinces snaking through deep valleys and over high ridges.
Choose this side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and capture the soft mist over the Lao highlands. It is best for seeing the expansive northern mountain ranges before the descent into the Red River Delta begins.
Distance: 495 km (308 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: VTE (17.988300323500003, 102.56300354)
Arrival: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Route Type: International
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