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DIE â TNR
Which side of the plane to sit from Arrachart Airport (Antsiranana) to Ivato Airport (Antananarivo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic perspective of Madagascar's rugged interior, including the highest mountain peaks and the lush eastern rainforest transition zones as you descend into the high plateau.
Diego-Suarez Bay
Aerial view of the world's second-largest natural bay and the iconic Pain de Sucre island.
Montagne d'Ambre
The dense, volcanic rainforest of the northern tip, often shrouded in its own microclimate clouds.
Tsaratanana Massif
Home to Maromokotro, the highest peak in Madagascar at 2,876 meters, dominating the skyline.
Eastern Escarpment
Dramatic views of the steep drop-offs where the central highlands meet the low-lying rainforests.
Highland Terraces
The iconic geometric patterns of flooded rice paddies as you approach the capital city.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. This side is superior for seeing the highest peaks of the island. Ensure your window is clean as the condensation from the humid coast can freeze at altitude over the massif.
The Emerald Sea
Stunning turquoise waters and coral reefs visible immediately after takeoff from Arrachart.
Ankarana Tsingy
The jagged limestone karst formations of the Ankarana Special Reserve appearing as a grey stone forest.
Sofia River Delta
The intricate, winding patterns of red silt rivers flowing into the Mozambique Channel.
Radama Archipelago
Distant views of the turquoise waters surrounding the remote islands off the northwestern coast.
Antananarivo Suburbs
Dense clusters of traditional red-brick highland houses scattered across the hills during the final approach.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Mozambique Channel. It offers a better view of the 'Tsingy' rock formations shortly after departure. Keep an eye out for the distinct red color of the rivers, a result of the island's unique soil erosion.
Distance: 743 km (462 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: DIE (-12.34939956665039, 49.29169845581055)
Arrival: TNR (-18.7969, 47.478802)
Route Type: Domestic
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