Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Yellow Sea and Korean coastline at takeoff, then the transition across the peninsula and into Manchurian plains. The approach to Ulaanbaatar offers comparable views from either side, but the departure scenery tips the advantage to the right.
Flown ICN to UBN? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Seoul to Ulaanbaatar is 1,216 miles (1,957 km), a flight of about 3 hours 15 minutes.
North Korean airspace (not visible due to altitude and haze), Yalu River border region, Manchurian Plain with sparse settlements, transition from agricultural lowlands to Mongolian steppe, scattered lakes and river systems in central Mongolia
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from ICN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Yellow Sea coastline and the Korean peninsula's western edge during the initial northwestward climb. The Incheon area and surrounding tidal flats are visible immediately after departure.
Landing at UBN
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Khangai Mountains and the Tuul River valley as the aircraft descends toward Ulaanbaatar from the southeast. The terrain transitions from steppe grassland to the river system and city approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Incheon International (ICN) to Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Seoul to Ulaanbaatar. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Yellow Sea and Korean coastline at takeoff, then the transition across the peninsula and into Manchurian plains. The approach to Ulaanbaatar offers comparable views from either side, but the departure scenery tips the advantage to the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Incheon International in Seoul?
During takeoff from Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Yellow Sea coastline and the Korean peninsula's western edge during the initial northwestward climb. The Incheon area and surrounding tidal flats are visible immediately after departure. Notable sights include: Yellow Sea (Hwanghae), Incheon metropolitan area, Korean peninsula coastline, tidal mudflats west of Incheon.
What can I see when landing at Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar?
When landing at Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Khangai Mountains and the Tuul River valley as the aircraft descends toward Ulaanbaatar from the southeast. The terrain transitions from steppe grassland to the river system and city approach. Notable sights include: Khangai Mountains, Tuul River valley, Ulaanbaatar city sprawl, Bogd Khan Mountain.
How long is the flight from Seoul to Ulaanbaatar?
The flight from Incheon International (ICN) to Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) takes about 3 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,216 miles (1,957 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Seoul to Ulaanbaatar flight path pass over?
North Korean airspace (not visible due to altitude and haze), Yalu River border region, Manchurian Plain with sparse settlements, transition from agricultural lowlands to Mongolian steppe, scattered lakes and river systems in central Mongolia