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EUX → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from F. D. Roosevelt Airport (Oranjestad) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the world-famous Maho Beach landing and provides clear views of the mysterious island of Saba rising from the Caribbean Sea.
The Quill
Look back immediately after takeoff from EUX to see the perfectly formed crater of Statia's dormant volcano.
Island of Saba
About halfway through the flight, the steep, cloud-shrouded peak of Mount Scenery is visible to the west.
Simpson Bay
As the plane descends, you'll see the vibrant turquoise waters and yachts of Simpson Bay.
Maho Beach
Seconds before landing, you fly directly over the crowds and turquoise water of the world's most famous plane-spotting beach.
Sit as far forward as possible to avoid the propeller or engine if flying on a Winair Twin Otter. Morning flights provide excellent lighting for photographing Saba without the sun's glare, and the final 60 seconds of the flight are the highlight for aviation enthusiasts.
St. Barts
Look east to spot the rugged coastline and luxury villas of Saint Barthélemy in the distance across the channel.
Great Bay
A clear view of Philipsburg and the massive cruise ships docked at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility.
Belair & Little Bay
The scenic resort areas and coastal cliffs on the southern edge of Sint Maarten near the capital.
Pelican Key
Beautiful coral formations and shallow reefs visible through the crystal-clear Caribbean water during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you, highlighting the vibrant colors of Philipsburg and the coastal reefs. It offers a much better perspective of the island's capital and the cruise ship harbor.
Distance: 62 km (39 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 min
Departure: EUX (17.49650001525879, -62.97940063476562)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: Domestic
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