About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from New Tokyo International (NRT) to Indira Gandhi International (DEL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tokyo to Delhi. The right side wins overall. The takeoff view over Tokyo Bay and the potential Fuji sighting is the highlight of the flight. During cruise the route tracks over central China and the Tibetan Plateau, where the right (north-facing) side offers better angles on the Himalayas and Tibetan highland terrain. The landing view on the left is good but Delhi's haze often limits visibility significantly.
What can I see during takeoff from New Tokyo International in Tokyo?
During takeoff from New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Right side for the best views. NRT typically departs on runway 16R/34L or 16L/34R. Southbound departures (heading ~160°) on the right side give you views over Tokyo Bay and the urban sprawl of greater Tokyo. You may catch glimpses of Mount Fuji to the southwest on clear days as the aircraft banks westward. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, greater Tokyo urban grid, Chiba coastline, Mount Fuji (distant, southwest).
What can I see when landing at Indira Gandhi International in Delhi?
When landing at Indira Gandhi International (DEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. IGI Delhi typically lands on runways 28 or 29 (westbound approach from the east), meaning the aircraft approaches from the east over the city. The left side faces south, giving views over Old Delhi, the Yamuna River, and the dense urban core. The right side faces north toward the less distinctive northern suburbs. Notable sights include: Yamuna River, Old Delhi urban core, Connaught Place area, New Delhi government district.
How long is the flight from Tokyo to Delhi?
The flight from New Tokyo International (NRT) to Indira Gandhi International (DEL) takes Approximately 9 to 10 hours.
What does the Tokyo to Delhi flight path pass over?
The route tracks westward over the East China Sea, crosses eastern China passing near Shanghai and then over central China's interior plains, then crosses the Tibetan Plateau at cruise altitude where the high-altitude terrain and Himalayan ranges are visible. The aircraft then descends over the Indo-Gangetic Plain into Delhi. The Tibetan Plateau crossing — roughly the midpoint — offers the most dramatic terrain of the flight, with the Kunlun and Himalayan ranges visible as snow-covered ridgelines from 35,000 feet.