About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Bali International (DPS)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Manila to Denpasar. Right side wins overall due to the spectacular Manila Bay and city departure views, and during the cruise the right side faces generally west-northwest giving views over the Sulu Sea, the Palawan archipelago's elongated island chain, and the Celebes Sea. The left side landing view of Agung is compelling but the right side's departure and en-route geography edges it out.
What can I see during takeoff from Ninoy Aquino International in Manila?
During takeoff from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. NAIA's primary departure runway 06 sends aircraft northeast over Manila Bay before turning south. Right side passengers get a sweeping view back over Manila Bay, the city skyline of Makati and BGC, and the coastal lowlands of Cavite. Left side faces inland toward the congested urban sprawl with less visual interest. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Makati/BGC skyline, Laguna de Bay (visible to the southeast as the aircraft turns), Cavite coastline.
What can I see when landing at Bali International in Denpasar?
When landing at Bali International (DPS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Ngurah Rai airport sits on a narrow isthmus between the sea and Benoa Bay. Aircraft typically approach from the north on runway 09 or from the sea on runway 27. On approach from the north, left side passengers see the volcanic cone of Gunung Agung dominating the northeastern skyline and the terraced rice fields of central Bali, while right side faces the Indian Ocean. Notable sights include: Gunung Agung (3,031m volcanic cone), Benoa Bay and its causeway, Kuta Beach coastline, terraced rice field landscape of southern Bali.
How long is the flight from Manila to Denpasar?
The flight from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Bali International (DPS) takes Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours.
What does the Manila to Denpasar flight path pass over?
The route tracks southwest from Manila across the Sulu Sea, passing over or near the Palawan island chain — a long narrow archipelago clearly visible from altitude. The aircraft then crosses the Celebes Sea and the northern tip of Sulawesi's arm before tracking southeast over the Flores Sea toward Bali. The Banda Sea and scattered Indonesian island groups including parts of the Lesser Sunda Islands are visible in the final hour of flight.