Loading map...
AIT → RAR
Which side of the plane to sit from Aitutaki Airport (Aitutaki) to Rarotonga International Airport (Avarua)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views of the Aitutaki lagoon immediately after departure and provides a breathtaking panorama of Rarotonga's fringing reef and western coastline during the approach.
Search flights from AIT to RAR
Aitutaki Lagoon
An unbeatable perspective of the entire lagoon's sandbars and varying shades of blue right after wheels up.
Ootu Peninsula
Look down at the luxury overwater bungalows and dense coconut groves at the tip of the main island.
Arorangi Coastline
The long stretches of white sand and the protective reef line on the western side of Rarotonga.
Raemaru Mountain
The iconic flat-topped mountain of Rarotonga, visible as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Black Rock
A significant cultural landmark and volcanic rock formation on the northwest corner of Rarotonga.
The right side is the 'money shot' side for the Aitutaki departure. Ensure your camera is ready the moment the plane leaves the runway. For the approach into Rarotonga, this side provides the best view of the waves breaking on the reef. Morning flights are ideal for lighting on this side.
Book Hotels in Avarua
One Foot Island
Aerial view of Tapuaetai (One Foot Island) and the eastern motus of the Aitutaki lagoon shortly after takeoff.
Deep Ocean Transition
The dramatic color shift from the neon turquoise of the reef to the deep indigo of the open South Pacific.
Avarua Capital
Views of the capital town, its historic limestone churches, and the busy Avatiu Harbor during descent.
Te Manga Peak
The sharp, jagged silhouette of Rarotonga's highest point, often draped in tropical clouds.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side is superior for seeing the urban layout of Avarua and the steepest mountain ridges of the interior. Keep an eye out for humpback whales in the deep water just outside the reef during the winter months (July to October).
Get eSIMs for Cook Islands
Get eSIMs for Cook IslandsDistance: 264 km (164 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: AIT (-18.830900192260746, -159.76400756835938)
Arrival: RAR (-21.2026996613, -159.805999756)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.