About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Honolulu International (HNL) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Honolulu to Manila. The right side delivers the more dramatic and memorable single moment of the flight — the sweeping view of Diamond Head, Waikiki, and Pearl Harbor on departure from Honolulu. The Manila approach on the left is good but the urban sprawl is less visually distinctive. Right side wins overall for the Oahu departure alone.
What can I see during takeoff from Honolulu International in Honolulu?
During takeoff from Honolulu International (HNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. HNL typically departs westbound on runway 08R/26L or 04R/22L. A westbound departure on 26L puts Diamond Head, Waikiki, and the Honolulu skyline on the right (north) side as the aircraft climbs and turns toward the northwest. You get a clear look at the southeastern Oahu coastline and the Ko'olau Range in the background. Notable sights include: Diamond Head crater, Waikiki Beach strip, Honolulu downtown skyline, Pearl Harbor and Ford Island.
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 approaches from the west or northwest over Manila Bay on runway 06/24. An approach from the west on runway 06 puts Manila Bay and the Pasig River delta on the left (north) side, with the Manila city skyline and Laguna de Bay visible to the left and ahead. The left seat gets the full panorama of the bay and the dense Metro Manila urban sprawl. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Laguna de Bay, Metro Manila urban grid, Corregidor Island in Manila Bay.
How long is the flight from Honolulu to Manila?
The flight from Honolulu International (HNL) to Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the Honolulu to Manila flight path pass over?
The route tracks northwest across the open North Pacific Ocean, passing north of the Marshall Islands and Micronesia. The midpoint falls roughly over open ocean near the International Date Line around 170°E longitude. The Philippine Sea is crossed in the final few hours before descent. There are no significant landmasses visible for the vast majority of the flight — occasional low cloud systems and ocean surface are the primary features. The Luzon Strait between Taiwan and the Philippines may be visible on the far northern horizon on clear days during descent.