About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hong Kong to Taipei. While takeoff favors the right for Hong Kong's harbour views, the landing approach to Taipei offers superior geography: Taipei 101, the Taipei Basin, and the Xueshan Range provide more distinctive visual landmarks. The left side captures the approach descent over the basin with better mountain visibility.
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. HKG typically departs runway 07L/R heading northeast. Right-side seats face the Kowloon Peninsula and Victoria Harbour immediately after takeoff, with clear views of Hong Kong Island's northern shore and the urban sprawl of Kowloon. Left seats see the New Territories and airport infrastructure receding. Notable sights include: Victoria Harbour (immediate foreground), Kowloon Peninsula urban district, Hong Kong Island northern coastline, New Territories extending inland.
What can I see when landing at Chiang Kai Shek International in Taipei?
When landing at Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE), sit on the Left side for the best views. TPE (Chiang Kai Shek) typically lands on runway 05L/R heading northeast, or 10L/R heading east depending on wind. On approach from the southwest, left-side seats offer views of the Taipei Basin, Taipei 101 in the city center, and the Xueshan Range (Snow Mountain) to the south. Right seats see the Pacific coast and Keelung area. Notable sights include: Taipei 101 (distinctive supertall structure in city center), Taipei Basin urban sprawl, Xueshan Range (Snow Mountain) to the south, Keelung coastal area to the northeast.
How long is the flight from Hong Kong to Taipei?
The flight from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) takes Approximately 3 hours.
What does the Hong Kong to Taipei flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Taiwan Strait (Formosa Strait) heading north-northeast. At cruise altitude, the strait itself is visible as open water separating Hong Kong/southern China from Taiwan. The Penghu Islands (Pescadores) may be visible as small landmasses in the strait's center. The eastern coast of Taiwan becomes visible during descent, with the Central Mountain Range forming a prominent north-south spine along the island's interior.