While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Bali offers superior views of the Indian Ocean, coastal geography, and volcanic landscape. For a 3.5-hour flight, the landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flown TSA to DPS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Taipei to Denpasar is 2,376 miles (3,823 km), a flight of about 5 hours 5 minutes.
The flight path crosses the South China Sea heading southwest, passing east of the Philippines (Mindanao visible from altitude if flying near 15°N), then over the Celebes Sea. The Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao's volcanic peaks may be visible on the right side during mid-flight if conditions permit. The route then crosses open ocean before approaching Bali from the south, with no major landmasses between the Philippines and Bali visible from typical cruise altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from TSA
RIGHTSungshan typically departs runway 10 (northwesterly heading). Right-side seats face toward the Taiwan Strait and northern Taiwan's coastline during initial climb, offering clear views of the strait's shipping lanes and the island's northern geography before turning south.
Landing at DPS
LEFTBali International (Denpasar) primarily uses runway 09 for landings (easterly approach). Left-side seats during descent offer views of Bali's southern coastline, the Indian Ocean, and the island's interior volcanic ridges as you descend toward the airport on the Bukit Peninsula.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Sungshan (TSA) to Denpasar I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Taipei to Denpasar. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The approach to Bali offers superior views of the Indian Ocean, coastal geography, and volcanic landscape. For a 3.5-hour flight, the landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Sungshan in Taipei?
During takeoff from Sungshan (TSA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Sungshan typically departs runway 10 (northwesterly heading). Right-side seats face toward the Taiwan Strait and northern Taiwan's coastline during initial climb, offering clear views of the strait's shipping lanes and the island's northern geography before turning south. Notable sights include: Taiwan Strait (immediate offshore waters), Taipei Basin urban sprawl to the left/south, Yangmingshan volcanic plateau to the southeast, northern Taiwan coastline receding northward.
What can I see when landing at Denpasar I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar?
When landing at Denpasar I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Bali International (Denpasar) primarily uses runway 09 for landings (easterly approach). Left-side seats during descent offer views of Bali's southern coastline, the Indian Ocean, and the island's interior volcanic ridges as you descend toward the airport on the Bukit Peninsula. Notable sights include: Indian Ocean (southern approach), Bukit Peninsula's limestone plateau, Mount Agung volcanic peak (distant, northern Bali), Jimbaran Bay and coastal settlements.
How long is the flight from Taipei to Denpasar?
The flight from Sungshan (TSA) to Denpasar I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) takes about 5 hours 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,376 miles (3,823 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Taipei to Denpasar flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the South China Sea heading southwest, passing east of the Philippines (Mindanao visible from altitude if flying near 15°N), then over the Celebes Sea. The Sulu Archipelago and Mindanao's volcanic peaks may be visible on the right side during mid-flight if conditions permit. The route then crosses open ocean before approaching Bali from the south, with no major landmasses between the Philippines and Bali visible from typical cruise altitude.