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CHY destination photo
GZO destination photo

CHY β†’ GZO

Which side of the plane to sit from Choiseul Bay Airport (Choiseul Bay) to Nusatupe Airport (Gizo)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an unparalleled view of the majestic Kolombangara volcano and the intricate coral formations of the Vona Vona Lagoon as you descend into Gizo.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏝️

Choiseul Southern Coast

Deep green rainforests meeting the turquoise fringe reefs of southern Choiseul Island shortly after takeoff.

🌊

The Slot

Fly over the historic New Georgia Sound, known for its deep blue waters and significant naval history.

πŸŒ‹

Mount Veve

A stunning view of the 1,770m extinct stratovolcano on Kolombangara Island, often piercing through a ring of clouds.

πŸ—ΊοΈ

Vona Vona Lagoon

A sprawling network of tiny uninhabited islets and vibrant coral gardens visible during the descent.

✈️

Nusatupe Approach

An incredible perspective of the airstrip which occupies nearly the entire small island of Nusatupe.

Book a morning flight to catch the sun illuminating the eastern face of the Kolombangara volcano. The left side is superior for photography as it captures the most iconic volcanic geography of the Western Province. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight for the reef patterns.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Vella Gulf

Expansive views of the deep Solomon Sea waters where many WWII naval engagements occurred.

⛰️

Vella Lavella Island

View the rugged, mountainous interior and the thermal springs area of this large, sparsely populated island.

🏝️

Kennedy Island

Spot the tiny island where JFK was shipwrecked in 1943, located just northeast of Gizo.

🚀

Gizo Harbour

A bird's-eye view of the bustling provincial capital and its colorful waterfront markets.

The right side offers better views of the open sea and the more remote Vella Lavella island. If flying in the late afternoon, this side may experience significant glare from the sun reflecting off the water, so polarized sunglasses are highly recommended for the best experience.

Top Activities in Gizo
Route Information

Distance: 163 km (101 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 16 min

Departure: CHY (-6.711944, 156.39611100000002)

Arrival: GZO (-8.09778022766, 156.863998413)

Route Type: Domestic

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