While the takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Musi River delta's complex hydrology and Palembang's striking riverine geography. The river meanders and tidal landscape are more visually engaging than the relatively flat Madura Strait crossing.
Flown SUB to PLM? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Surabaya to Palembang is 637 miles (1,025 km), a flight of about 2 hours.
Java Sea crossing with scattered islands and shallow waters; transition from East Java's volcanic geology to Sumatra's lowland swamp terrain; the Karimata Strait region marks the boundary between Java and Sumatra's distinct geographical zones
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SUB
LEFTLeft side offers views of the Madura Strait and the northern coast of East Java as the aircraft climbs westward from Surabaya. You'll see the transition from urban Surabaya to coastal waters and the Madura Island landmass.
Landing at PLM
RIGHTRight side provides excellent views of the Musi River delta and Palembang's location on the river as you descend from the northeast. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's sprawl along the waterway are clearly visible during approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Juanda International Airport (SUB) to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Ii (PLM)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Surabaya to Palembang. While the takeoff offers coastal views, the landing approach provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with the Musi River delta's complex hydrology and Palembang's striking riverine geography. The river meanders and tidal landscape are more visually engaging than the relatively flat Madura Strait crossing.
What can I see during takeoff from Juanda International Airport in Surabaya?
During takeoff from Juanda International Airport (SUB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of the Madura Strait and the northern coast of East Java as the aircraft climbs westward from Surabaya. You'll see the transition from urban Surabaya to coastal waters and the Madura Island landmass. Notable sights include: Madura Strait, Madura Island (northern coast), Surabaya urban sprawl, Java Sea.
What can I see when landing at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Ii in Palembang?
When landing at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Ii (PLM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides excellent views of the Musi River delta and Palembang's location on the river as you descend from the northeast. The river's distinctive meanders and the city's sprawl along the waterway are clearly visible during approach. Notable sights include: Musi River delta and meanders, Palembang city along riverbanks, Bangka Strait (to the east), lowland swamp forests.
How long is the flight from Surabaya to Palembang?
The flight from Juanda International Airport (SUB) to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Ii (PLM) takes about 2 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 637 miles (1,025 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Surabaya to Palembang flight path pass over?
Java Sea crossing with scattered islands and shallow waters; transition from East Java's volcanic geology to Sumatra's lowland swamp terrain; the Karimata Strait region marks the boundary between Java and Sumatra's distinct geographical zones