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ATL destination photo
HNL destination photo

ATLHNL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

While both sides offer vast landscapes, the Left Side is preferred for the iconic arrival into Honolulu, providing a panoramic view of the Oahu coastline, Diamond Head, and the Waikiki skyline during the standard approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Mississippi River

Cross the massive winding artery of the American South shortly after departing Georgia.

🏜️

Sonoran Desert

Observe the stark, beautiful red rock formations and vast arid basins of Arizona and New Mexico.

🏙️

Los Angeles Basin

Depending on the flight corridor, catch a glimpse of the sprawling Southern California metro area.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

Enjoy over five hours of deep blue ocean views as the aircraft transits the mid-Pacific.

⛰️

Diamond Head

The most famous landmark in Hawaii appears prominently on the left during the final descent.

🏖️

Waikiki Beach

See the turquoise waters and high-rise hotels of Honolulu's most famous beach strip just before touchdown.

Sit behind the wing to ensure your view of Diamond Head isn't blocked. Since this flight heads west, the sun will be on the left (south) side for most of the journey; keep your window shade down mid-flight to stay cool, but open it 30 minutes before arrival at HNL for the best island views. The approach usually enters from the southeast, making the left side the 'scenic' side for arrival.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Southern Appalachians

View the rolling green ridges of the Appalachian mountain range immediately after takeoff from Atlanta.

🏜️

Grand Canyon

On more northerly flight paths, the massive scale of the Grand Canyon is visible in the distance to the north.

🎰

Las Vegas & Lake Mead

Spot the bright blue of Lake Mead and the concentrated architecture of the Vegas Strip.

🏔️

Sierra Nevada

View the snow-capped peaks of California's highest mountain range before crossing the coastline.

🚢

Pearl Harbor

As the plane aligns with the runway at HNL, look down for a direct view of the USS Arizona Memorial.

🏝️

North Shore Cliffs

Catch glimpses of the rugged northern coastline of Oahu if the flight approaches from a more northerly angle.

The right side is ideal for passengers who want to avoid the direct glare of the sun on this westbound route. It offers superior views of the High Desert and potentially the Grand Canyon. On the final seconds of the flight, this side provides an excellent perspective of Pearl Harbor and the Hickam Air Force Base facilities.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 7,234 km (4,495 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 31 min

Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: Domestic

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