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APW destination photo
HNL destination photo

APWHNL

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is the premier choice for this route, offering the most iconic aerial views of the Hawaiian islands upon arrival, including the world-famous Diamond Head crater and the Waikiki coastline.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌴

Tutuila Island

The rugged peaks of American Samoa may be visible in the distance to the east depending on the specific flight track.

🪸

Palmyra Atoll

One of the most remote coral atolls in the world, occasionally visible as a tiny ring of green in the deep blue Pacific.

💎

Diamond Head

Unparalleled views of Hawaii's most iconic volcanic tuff cone just moments before touchdown.

🏙️

Waikiki Skyline

The high-rise hotels and turquoise reef waters of Honolulu's most famous beach district.

⛰️

Punchbowl Crater

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific situated inside an extinct volcanic crater overlooking the city.

This side is essential for the 'classic' Honolulu arrival experience. Book a seat in front of the wing for unobstructed photos of the atolls mid-flight and the dramatic Oahu coastline. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting on the island's southern cliffs.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🌋

Savai'i Island

A view of the massive shield volcano of Samoa's largest island shortly after takeoff from Upolu.

☁️

ITCZ Cloudscapes

Dramatic vertical cloud development as the flight crosses the Intertropical Convergence Zone near the equator.

⚓

Pearl Harbor

A historical perspective of the harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial during the final descent into Honolulu.

🌊

Barbers Point

The southwestern tip of Oahu, featuring the lighthouse and industrial harbor as the plane turns for its final approach.

The left side is preferable for morning flights to minimize solar glare. It offers a unique view of the western side of Oahu and the historic military installations of Pearl Harbor if the wind conditions favor a standard westerly landing.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 4,200 km (2,610 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 56 min

Departure: APW (-13.829999923706056, -172.00799560546875)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: International

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