Right-side seats capture the dramatic departure over Taiwan's northeast coast and Pacific, while the landing view is relatively comparable on both sides. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing, making right the better overall choice for this route.
Flown TPE to ASP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Taipei to Alice Springs is 3,482 miles (5,604 km), a flight of about 8 hours.
The flight path crosses the South China Sea heading southwest, passing east of the Philippines (Luzon visible on left side during cruise if daylight permits), then continues over the Celebes Sea and Banda Sea. The Timor Sea crossing follows, with Timor Island potentially visible on the left during late-cruise phases. The final approach into Australia crosses the Great Sandy Desert and Tanami Desert before reaching the MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs. Most of the 7+ hour cruise occurs over open ocean with limited landmark visibility.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from TPE
RIGHTTPE typically departs eastbound (Runway 05L/05R). Right-side seats face toward the Pacific Ocean and the northeastern Taiwan coast, offering views of the Taipei Basin and coastal geography immediately after rotation.
Landing at ASP
LEFTASP uses Runway 09/27; approach typically comes from the west (Runway 27). Left-side seats face north during final approach, providing views of the MacDonnell Ranges and the red desert terrain surrounding Alice Springs.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) to Alice Springs (ASP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Taipei to Alice Springs. Right-side seats capture the dramatic departure over Taiwan's northeast coast and Pacific, while the landing view is relatively comparable on both sides. The takeoff advantage outweighs the landing, making right the better overall choice for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Chiang Kai Shek International in Taipei?
During takeoff from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE), sit on the Right side for the best views. TPE typically departs eastbound (Runway 05L/05R). Right-side seats face toward the Pacific Ocean and the northeastern Taiwan coast, offering views of the Taipei Basin and coastal geography immediately after rotation. Notable sights include: Taipei Basin urban sprawl, Keelung Harbor to the northeast, northern Taiwan coastline, Pacific Ocean horizon.
What can I see when landing at Alice Springs in Alice Springs?
When landing at Alice Springs (ASP), sit on the Left side for the best views. ASP uses Runway 09/27; approach typically comes from the west (Runway 27). Left-side seats face north during final approach, providing views of the MacDonnell Ranges and the red desert terrain surrounding Alice Springs. Notable sights include: MacDonnell Ranges (East and West), red desert plains, Todd River valley, Alice Springs township.
How long is the flight from Taipei to Alice Springs?
The flight from Chiang Kai Shek International (TPE) to Alice Springs (ASP) takes about 8 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 3,482 miles (5,604 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Taipei to Alice Springs flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the South China Sea heading southwest, passing east of the Philippines (Luzon visible on left side during cruise if daylight permits), then continues over the Celebes Sea and Banda Sea. The Timor Sea crossing follows, with Timor Island potentially visible on the left during late-cruise phases. The final approach into Australia crosses the Great Sandy Desert and Tanami Desert before reaching the MacDonnell Ranges near Alice Springs. Most of the 7+ hour cruise occurs over open ocean with limited landmark visibility.