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ZAM → MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Zamboanga International Airport (Zamboanga) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic landmarks of the Philippine archipelago, including the world-famous Taal Volcano and a scenic approach over Manila Bay with potential sunset views.
Search flights from ZAM to MNL
Santa Cruz Islands
Aerial view of the famous Great Santa Cruz Island known for its unique pink coralline sand shortly after takeoff.
Sulu Sea Panoramas
Expansive views of the deep blue Sulu Sea and the occasional sighting of the remote Cuyo Island group.
Taal Volcano
A stunning bird's-eye view of the world's smallest active volcano sitting inside a lake within a caldera.
Manila Bay
The historic bay filled with cargo ships and the distinctive hook-shaped Sangley Point in Cavite.
Metro Manila West Coast
Views of the reclaimed areas, including the Mall of Asia complex and the Entertainment City skyline.
For the best experience, book an afternoon flight (around 4:30 PM) to catch the legendary Manila Bay sunset during descent. Sit several rows behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Taal Volcano, which usually appears about 15-20 minutes before landing. In the rainy season (June-October), morning flights are generally clearer for photography.
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Mount Kanlaon
The majestic silhouette of the highest peak in the Visayas located on Negros Island.
Panay Island Range
Views of the rugged, lush Central Panay Mountain Range stretching across the horizon.
Mount Banahaw
A glimpse of the mystical three-peaked volcano bordering Quezon and Laguna provinces.
Laguna de Bay
The vast expanse of the Philippines' largest freshwater lake as the plane turns for its final approach.
Makati & BGC Skylines
A close-up view of the dense clusters of skyscrapers in the country's primary financial districts.
Morning flights provide the best illumination for the mountains of Negros and Panay. On the approach to MNL, if the aircraft uses Runway 24, the right side gets a superior view of the sprawling urban density and the high-rise buildings of BGC and Makati. Keep your camera ready as soon as the plane crosses over the Laguna coastline.
Book Hotels in ManilaDistance: 851 km (529 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: ZAM (6.922420024871826, 122.05999755859376)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: Domestic
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