About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Incheon International (ICN)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Manila to Seoul. The right side delivers the more dramatic departure sequence over Laguna de Bay and the Sierra Madre, and during the cruise over the South China Sea and Yellow Sea the views are broadly similar on both sides. The right side also picks up views of the Korean Peninsula's western coastline and islands during descent, making it the stronger choice overall.
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 the aircraft northeast over Manila Bay initially, then climbing right gives views over Metro Manila, Laguna de Bay, and the Sierra Madre mountain range. The left side faces the open South China Sea with little of interest. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Laguna de Bay (one of Southeast Asia's largest lakes), Sierra Madre mountain range, Metro Manila urban sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Incheon International in Seoul?
When landing at Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Incheon's primary arrival runway 15L/33R means aircraft typically approach from the north over the Yellow Sea. Landing on runway 15L, the left side captures the Han River estuary, Incheon's coastal islands, and the western Seoul metropolitan area. The right side faces open Yellow Sea water. Notable sights include: Han River estuary and tidal flats, Incheon coastal islands (Ganghwa-do and surrounding islets), western Seoul metropolitan area, Incheon Bridge.
How long is the flight from Manila to Seoul?
The flight from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Incheon International (ICN) takes Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours.
What does the Manila to Seoul flight path pass over?
The flight tracks north-northeast across the South China Sea, passing east of the Paracel Islands region, then crosses the Taiwan Strait or skirts east of Taiwan depending on routing, before crossing the East China Sea. The Yellow Sea is visible during the final hour of descent toward Korea. The route is predominantly over open water with occasional glimpses of Chinese coastal provinces and the Shandong Peninsula on the left side during cruise.