About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Taipei. The right side delivers the more dramatic takeoff view with the LA basin and San Gabriels, and over the Pacific the views are largely equivalent. At landing the left side is better for Taipei, but the right side's takeoff advantage is the highlight of the flight. If you want one side for the whole flight, right gives you the better departure spectacle.
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. LAX typically departs westward over the Pacific on runways 24L/24R, then aircraft turn northbound. The right side gives you a sweeping look back at the Santa Monica Bay coastline, the LA basin, and the San Gabriel Mountains rising behind the city. Left side faces open ocean immediately. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay coastline, Downtown LA skyline in the distance, San Gabriel Mountains, Palos Verdes Peninsula.
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's Taoyuan airport typically lands on runways oriented roughly northeast-southwest. On approach from the northeast over the Taiwan Strait, the left side faces south toward Taipei city, Taipei 101, and the Central Mountain Range spine running down the island. Right side looks northwest over the strait toward open water. Notable sights include: Taipei 101 and Taipei city basin, Central Mountain Range, Taiwan Strait coastline, Taoyuan coastal plain.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Taipei?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) takes Approximately 12 to 13 hours.
What does the Los Angeles to Taipei flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northwest across the North Pacific, passing south of the Aleutian Islands arc. The route crosses the dateline roughly halfway through. Passengers may see the Aleutian chain as distant volcanic peaks on clear days from the right side. The flight then descends toward Japan's Ryukyu Islands chain before crossing the East China Sea and approaching Taiwan from the northeast over the Taiwan Strait.