The right side wins across all phases: a scenic coastal departure over Malibu, a cruise track that runs along the mountainous Pacific Northwest and Alaskan coast before curving past the volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula, and a final approach dominated by Lantau Island's peaks. The left side spends most of the 15-hour flight over featureless open Pacific water.
Flight Path
The route's midpoint falls over the North Pacific near the Aleutian chain and the Kamchatka Peninsula, where the great-circle path curves southwest toward Japan and the Sea of Japan before continuing on to the East China Sea and Hong Kong.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Hong Kong International (HKG)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Hong Kong. The right side wins across all phases: a scenic coastal departure over Malibu, a cruise track that runs along the mountainous Pacific Northwest and Alaskan coast before curving past the volcanic Kamchatka Peninsula, and a final approach dominated by Lantau Island's peaks. The left side spends most of the 15-hour flight over featureless open Pacific water.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing LAX in the normal west-flow pattern, aircraft bound for Asia typically bank north shortly after liftoff to join the great-circle track up the coast. That turn puts the Malibu coastline and Santa Monica Mountains right outside the right-side windows, while the left side only shows open ocean. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay, Malibu coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, Point Dume.
What can I see when landing at Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
When landing at Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the final descent into Chek Lap Kok, the approach path passes close by Lantau Island, whose steep green peaks rise abruptly from the South China Sea right beside the runway. Passengers on the right typically get this dramatic terrain view plus glimpses of outlying islands, while the left side mostly faces open water. Notable sights include: Lantau Peak, Sunset Peak, outlying islands of the South China Sea, distant Hong Kong Island skyline.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Hong Kong?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Hong Kong International (HKG) takes 15h 05m.
What does the Los Angeles to Hong Kong flight path pass over?
The route's midpoint falls over the North Pacific near the Aleutian chain and the Kamchatka Peninsula, where the great-circle path curves southwest toward Japan and the Sea of Japan before continuing on to the East China Sea and Hong Kong.