Gulf of Thailand to the right; Ko Samui's southern beaches and rocky headlands; Ang Thong Marine National Park islands visible as distant specks on the horizon to the southeast; mainland Thailand coastline faintly visible on the far horizon to the southwest
Surat Thani coastal lowlands to the right, Gulf of Thailand waters, Ko Samui's northern beaches and palm vegetation
🛫 Taking Off from Ko Samui (USM)
🛬 Landing at Ko Samui (USM)
Samui Airport is a small, distinctive open-air airport built and operated by Bangkok Airways, with thatched-roof terminals, tropical gardens, and no jet bridges—passengers walk outdoors between gates and aircraft.
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About This Airport
Which side of the plane has the best views at Samui International Airport (USM)?
At Samui International Airport in Ko Samui: for takeoff, sit on the Right side; for landing, sit on the Right side. Notable views include: Gulf of Thailand (Siam Gulf) to the right; Ko Samui's southern beaches and rocky headlands; Ang Thong Marine National Park islands visible as distant specks on the horizon to the southeast; mainland Thailand coastline faintly visible on the far horizon to the southwest.
What can I see during takeoff from Samui International Airport in Ko Samui?
When taking off from Samui International Airport (USM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Runway 17 departs southbound from Samui, and the right side offers views of the Gulf of Thailand's eastern waters and the island's southern coastline. The left side faces the interior and western side of Ko Samui, which is less visually distinctive during climb-out. Notable sights include: Gulf of Thailand (Siam Gulf) to the right; Ko Samui's southern beaches and rocky headlands; Ang Thong Marine National Park islands visible as distant specks on the horizon to the southeast; mainland Thailand coastline faintly visible on the far horizon to the southwest.
What can I see when landing at Samui International Airport in Ko Samui?
When landing at Samui International Airport (USM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Runway 17 (the most common landing runway) has aircraft approaching from the north, heading southbound. The right side offers views of the Surat Thani mainland coast and the broader Gulf of Thailand geography as you descend toward the island. The left side faces the open gulf and lacks distinctive landmarks during final approach. Notable sights include: Surat Thani coastal lowlands to the right, Gulf of Thailand waters, Ko Samui's northern beaches and palm vegetation, smaller nearby islands (Ko Phangan visible in distance to the northeast).
What factors affect the best window seat at Samui International Airport?
The best window seat at Samui International Airport (USM) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around Ko Samui (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.