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CCC → HAV
Which side of the plane to sit from Jardines Del Rey Airport (Cunagua) to José Martí International Airport (Havana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the northern Cuban coastline, including the iconic Varadero peninsula and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Atlantic shelf.
Cayo Guillermo
Views of the pristine beaches and sand dunes that make up the western end of the Jardines del Rey archipelago.
Varadero Peninsula
The most striking landmark on the route; a narrow, 20km long finger of sand stretching into the blue Atlantic.
Matanzas Bay
A deep-water bay known as the 'City of Bridges,' where the coastline curves inward dramatically.
El Morro Fortress
If the flight path follows the shoreline into Havana, you will see the iconic 16th-century lighthouse and fort.
Havana Malecon
The famous seaside drive and the skyline of Vedado are often visible just before the aircraft turns inland for landing.
The right side is the 'ocean side' for most of the flight. Request a window seat away from the wing for an unobstructed view of Varadero about two-thirds of the way through the trip. For late afternoon flights, the golden hour light makes the coral reefs and shallow waters exceptionally photogenic.
Pedraplén de Cayo Coco
The impressive 27km stone causeway connecting the keys to the mainland is visible immediately after takeoff.
Bahía de los Perros
A shallow, protected bay known for its distinct water colors and flocks of flamingos often visible from lower altitudes.
Sierra de Jatibonico
Rugged limestone hills and karst formations that rise from the central plains of the Sancti Spíritus province.
Yumuri Valley
As you approach Havana, look for the lush, deep green basin near Matanzas surrounded by steep hills.
Choose the left side for morning departures to have the sun behind you. This side is better for observing the island's interior topography and the agricultural heartland of Cuba. During the final approach to HAV, this side often yields views of the southern outskirts of the city.
Distance: 423 km (263 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: CCC (22.4610004425, -78.32839965820001)
Arrival: HAV (22.989200592041016, -82.40910339355469)
Route Type: Domestic
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