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BMY destination photo
KOC destination photo

BMYKOC

Which side of the plane to sit from Île Art - Waala Airport (Waala) to Koumac Airport (Koumac)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the lush northern tip of Grande Terre, the intricate turquoise patterns of the Cook Reef, and the rugged mountain ranges as you approach the main island.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏝️

Belep Archipelago

Aerial view of the remote and pristine islands of the Belep group immediately after takeoff from Waala.

🌊

Cook Reef System

Stunning vistas of the vast UNESCO World Heritage lagoon with its vibrant turquoise and deep blue gradients.

⛰️

Poum Peninsula

The first glimpse of the main island's northernmost tip, featuring distinctive red soil and green scrubland.

🚜

Nickel Mining Sites

See the dramatic terraced landscape of the northern nickel mines, a cornerstone of the local economy.

🏔️

Mont Panie Range

On clear days, the distant silhouette of the island's highest peaks is visible to the southeast.

Sit on the left for the best sunlight in the morning. This side provides a continuous view of the coastal transition from coral reefs to the mountainous spine of the main island. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the complex reef structures near the Belep Islands.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🚤

Île Art Coastline

Dramatic cliffs and small secluded bays along the western edge of the Belep Islands.

💠

The Great North Lagoon

Expansive views of the open lagoon extending toward the horizon and the D'Entrecasteaux reefs.

⚓

Baie de Tanle

A beautiful deep-water bay visible as the aircraft begins its descent into the Koumac region.

🌅

Western Horizon

Unobstructed views of the Coral Sea, particularly stunning during late afternoon flights.

Choose the right side if you are flying in the late afternoon to enjoy the reflection of the sun on the lagoon. While less mountainous, this side offers a better perspective of the sheer vastness of the New Caledonian barrier reef system.

Top Activities in Koumac
Route Information

Distance: 111 km (69 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 min

Departure: BMY (-19.720600128173828, 163.66099548339844)

Arrival: KOC (-20.546300888061523, 164.25599670410156)

Route Type: Domestic

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