While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is more geographically distinctive and visually rewarding. The approach to Chennai offers clear views of the coastline, river delta, and city structure that outweigh the takeoff advantage.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the Andaman Sea heading west-southwest. Around the midpoint (roughly 1.5 hours in), you'll be over open water with no major landmarks visible. The route passes south of the Andaman Islands (not visible at cruise altitude from this flight path). As you approach the Indian coast near Puducherry and Chennai, the Eastern Ghats mountain range appears as a low, distant ridge on the horizon ahead—subtle and hazy at cruise altitude, not dramatic. The coastline becomes visible about 30 minutes before landing, with the Bay of Bengal's waters and the Tamil Nadu coastal plains gradually coming into focus.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bangkok International (BKK) to Chennai International (MAA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bangkok to Madras. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is more geographically distinctive and visually rewarding. The approach to Chennai offers clear views of the coastline, river delta, and city structure that outweigh the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Bangkok International in Bangkok?
During takeoff from Bangkok International (BKK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Bangkok typically departs eastbound (runways 01L/01R). Right-side seats offer views of the Chao Phraya River delta and the Gulf of Thailand as you climb out, with the city sprawl visible to the left but less dramatic. Notable sights include: Chao Phraya River delta with its intricate waterway network, Gulf of Thailand (Andaman Sea approach), Bangkok metropolitan sprawl extending north, Samut Prakan coastal plains.
What can I see when landing at Chennai International in Madras?
When landing at Chennai International (MAA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Chennai typically lands on runways 06 or 08 (easterly approaches). Left-side seats during descent offer views of the Cooum River, Marina Beach, and the city's eastern waterfront. Right-side views show inland suburbs with less geographic distinction. Notable sights include: Cooum River and its delta, Marina Beach and the Bay of Bengal coastline, Chennai city grid with Fort St. George area, Pulicat Lake to the north.
How long is the flight from Bangkok to Madras?
The flight from Bangkok International (BKK) to Chennai International (MAA) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Bangkok to Madras flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Andaman Sea heading west-southwest. Around the midpoint (roughly 1.5 hours in), you'll be over open water with no major landmarks visible. The route passes south of the Andaman Islands (not visible at cruise altitude from this flight path). As you approach the Indian coast near Puducherry and Chennai, the Eastern Ghats mountain range appears as a low, distant ridge on the horizon ahead—subtle and hazy at cruise altitude, not dramatic. The coastline becomes visible about 30 minutes before landing, with the Bay of Bengal's waters and the Tamil Nadu coastal plains gradually coming into focus.