About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bangkok International (BKK) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bangkok to Manila. While the right side wins at takeoff for Bangkok views, the left side captures the more dramatic scenery overall: the South China Sea crossing, the approach over Manila Bay, and during cruise you may glimpse the Vietnamese and Cambodian coastlines on the left side as the route arcs northeast. The Manila Bay arrival on the left is the single best view of the entire flight.
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. Suvarnabhumi's primary departure runway 19L/R sends aircraft southward before turning east. The right side gives you the Bangkok skyline and the Chao Phraya River snaking through the city as you climb out. The left side faces industrial eastern suburbs with little of interest. Notable sights include: Bangkok CBD skyline (Silom/Sathorn towers), Chao Phraya River meanders, Gulf of Thailand coastline near Samut Prakan, Bang Pakong River delta.
What can I see when landing at Ninoy Aquino International in Manila?
When landing at Ninoy Aquino International (MNL), sit on the Left side for the best views. NAIA's primary approach from the north on runway 06/24 or from the south on 13/31 typically brings aircraft over Manila Bay on final. The left side gives you Manila Bay, the Pasig River, and the Manila city center. Right side faces the Laguna de Bay and suburban Rizal province, which is less dramatic. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Laguna de Bay (largest lake in the Philippines), Manila city center and Intramuros district, Pasig River.
How long is the flight from Bangkok to Manila?
The flight from Bangkok International (BKK) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Bangkok to Manila flight path pass over?
The route tracks northeast over the Gulf of Thailand, crosses the southern tip of Vietnam near Ho Chi Minh City, then crosses the South China Sea — a largely featureless open-water crossing of roughly 600 miles. The Palawan island chain of the Philippines appears on the left side about 45 minutes before landing, with its narrow elongated ridgeline visible on clear days. The Calamian Islands and Mindoro Strait are crossed in the final descent phase.