Loading map...

CXI destination photo
HNL destination photo

CXIHNL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most iconic arrival views into Honolulu, including Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline, as well as a superior perspective of the Kiritimati atoll lagoon upon takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🪸

Kiritimati Lagoon

Stunning aerial views of the world's largest coral atoll and its intricate network of salt ponds and turquoise waters.

🏝️

Line Islands Chain

Potential sightings of remote uninhabited islands or reefs scattered in the central Pacific during the initial climb.

🌋

Diamond Head

The most famous volcanic tuff cone in the world is typically visible on the right during the approach to Runway 8L or 8R.

🏙️

Honolulu Skyline

A panoramic view of the Waikiki high-rises and the bustling downtown area as the plane aligns for landing.

🏖️

Waikiki Beach

Observe the contrast between the white sand beaches and the vibrant reef colors from a low-altitude perspective.

The right side is the 'money side' for this route. Upon departure from CXI, you see the vast interior of the atoll. Upon arrival in HNL, the standard traffic pattern usually circles the island, giving the right side a perfect view of Diamond Head and the Waikiki shoreline. Sit forward of the wing for the clearest views.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Cook Island

View of the protected seabird sanctuary located at the entrance of the Kiritimati lagoon shortly after departure.

🌊

Equatorial Pacific

Cross the Intertropical Convergence Zone with massive cloud formations and deep sapphire ocean vistas.

⚓

Pearl Harbor

On the standard approach to HNL, the left side provides a clear view of the USS Arizona Memorial and the historic naval base.

⛰️

Waianae Range

The rugged, older volcanic mountains of western Oahu visible during the final descent stages.

☀️

Pacific Sunset

On afternoon flights, this side offers front-row seats to spectacular sunset colors over the open ocean.

Choose the left side if your flight is in the late afternoon to catch the sunset. It is also the better side for viewing Pearl Harbor and the Ewa Plain just before touchdown at Daniel K. Inouye International.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 2,151 km (1,337 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 52 min

Departure: CXI (1.9861600399017332, -157.35000610351562)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.