The right side wins mainly on the strength of the Hong Kong departure sequence, which offers a dramatic, high-density urban and harbor view rarely matched elsewhere on this short regional route; the Hanoi approach on the left is pleasant but comparatively flat and less varied.
Flown HKG to HAN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Hong Kong to Hanoi is 526 miles (846 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Pearl River Delta coastline, low hills of Guangxi and northern Vietnam, and the flat agricultural plains leading into the Red River Delta
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HKG
RIGHTDeparting HKG toward the southwest, the initial turn over Lantau brings Hong Kong Island's skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the dense high-rises of Kowloon into view on the right side of the aircraft. The left side mostly shows open South China Sea and smaller outlying islands with less visual interest.
Landing at HAN
LEFTOn approach into Hanoi from the south or southeast, the left side offers views across the Red River and its braided sandbars, with the patchwork rice fields of the Red River Delta stretching to the horizon. The Ba Vi highlands appear as a distant landmark to the west, adding some relief to an otherwise flat approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Noibai International (HAN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hong Kong to Hanoi. The right side wins mainly on the strength of the Hong Kong departure sequence, which offers a dramatic, high-density urban and harbor view rarely matched elsewhere on this short regional route; the Hanoi approach on the left is pleasant but comparatively flat and less varied.
What can I see during takeoff from Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
During takeoff from Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing HKG toward the southwest, the initial turn over Lantau brings Hong Kong Island's skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the dense high-rises of Kowloon into view on the right side of the aircraft. The left side mostly shows open South China Sea and smaller outlying islands with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Hong Kong Island skyline, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon high-rises, Lantau Island coastline.
What can I see when landing at Noibai International in Hanoi?
When landing at Noibai International (HAN), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into Hanoi from the south or southeast, the left side offers views across the Red River and its braided sandbars, with the patchwork rice fields of the Red River Delta stretching to the horizon. The Ba Vi highlands appear as a distant landmark to the west, adding some relief to an otherwise flat approach. Notable sights include: Red River and its sandbars, Red River Delta rice paddies, Ba Vi mountain in the distance, Hanoi's outer suburbs.
How long is the flight from Hong Kong to Hanoi?
The flight from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Noibai International (HAN) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 526 miles (846 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Hong Kong to Hanoi flight path pass over?
Pearl River Delta coastline, low hills of Guangxi and northern Vietnam, and the flat agricultural plains leading into the Red River Delta