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AXR destination photo
KKR destination photo

AXRKKR

Which side of the plane to sit from Arutua Airport (Arutua) to Kaukura Airport (Kaukura Atoll)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the primary settlements on both Arutua and Kaukura, along with a stunning perspective of the western reef fringes and turquoise lagoons.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏠

Rautini Village

The main settlement of Arutua is visible shortly after takeoff, showcasing the local Tuamotu lifestyle.

🌴

Western Reef Chain

A continuous string of palm-covered motus stretching along the western edge of the flight path.

✈️

Kaukura Lagoon Entry

Spectacular views of the shallow reef flats as the aircraft descends toward KKR airport.

🏘️

Raititi Village

The primary village of Kaukura, located near the airport, visible during the final moments of the approach.

The right side is generally preferred for seeing the inhabited parts of both atolls. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff and 5 minutes before landing, as the flight duration is extremely short (approx. 15-20 minutes). Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the western reefs without sun glare.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Arutua Inner Lagoon

A vast expanse of shallow, multicolored turquoise water visible immediately after takeoff from AXR.

🏝️

Eastern Motus

Small, uninhabited coral islets scattered along the eastern rim of the Arutua atoll.

🐠

Kaukura Coral Wall

The dramatic transition from the deep cobalt blue of the Pacific to the bright neon reef of Kaukura's eastern side.

🚤

Lagoon Channels

Deep water passes where the ocean meets the lagoon, often visible as darker blue ribbons through the reef.

Sit on the left if you want to see the sunrise over the Pacific on early morning flights. This side provides an expansive view of the inner lagoon of Arutua during the initial climb, offering a sense of the atoll's massive scale.

Top Activities in Kaukura Atoll
Route Information

Distance: 54 km (34 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 min

Departure: AXR (-15.248299598693848, -146.61700439453125)

Arrival: KKR (-15.663299560546877, -146.88499450683594)

Route Type: Domestic

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