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VTE → KUL
Which side of the plane to sit from Wattay International Airport (Vientiane) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Kuala Lumpur)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Thai coastline, the narrow Kra Isthmus, and the bustling maritime activity in the Strait of Malacca, culminating in a potentially stunning view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.
Greater Bangkok Area
While usually passing to the east, the sprawling urban density of the Thai capital and the Chao Phraya river mouth are often visible.
Prachuap Khiri Khan Coast
View the dramatic limestone peaks and scalloped bays where the Thai peninsula narrows significantly.
Strait of Malacca
Watch the dense maritime traffic of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes as you descend toward the Malay Peninsula.
Klang Valley & KL Tower
On the standard approach to KUL, the right side often provides a panoramic view of the Petronas Twin Towers and the city skyline.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind or above the plane during the southward journey. For the best chance to see the Kuala Lumpur skyline, choose a seat toward the front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. The descent over the Strait of Malacca is particularly impressive at sunset.
Mekong River Boundary
Witness the winding Mekong River which serves as the natural border between Laos and Thailand immediately after departure.
Khorat Plateau
View the expansive agricultural grid of Northeast Thailand, characterized by vibrant green rice paddies during the rainy season.
Redang & Perhentian Islands
As the flight nears Malaysia, catch glimpses of the turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding these premier island destinations.
Titiwangsa Mountains
Observe the dense, ancient rainforests covering the central mountain range that forms the backbone of Peninsular Malaysia.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly scenic during the monsoon transition (May-Oct) when the clouds over the Gulf of Thailand create dramatic patterns. Keep an eye out for the coastal transitions near Terengganu.
Distance: 1,697 km (1,054 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 16 min
Departure: VTE (17.988300323500003, 102.56300354)
Arrival: KUL (2.7455799579619997, 101.70999908446998)
Route Type: International
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