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FLL โ SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (Fort Lauderdale) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers the most consistent and vibrant views of the Bahamian archipelago and the southern Leeward Islands during the descent into St. Maarten.
Port Everglades
Excellent views of the cruise ship terminals and the intricate canal systems of Fort Lauderdale during climb-out.
The Bahamas Chain
Stunning views of Eleuthera, Cat Island, and the Exuma Cays, showcasing world-famous turquoise water gradients.
Saba Island
The dramatic silhouette of Mount Scenery, an active volcano rising steeply from the Caribbean Sea to the south.
Saint Barthรฉlemy
Spot the luxury yachts and mountainous terrain of St. Barts visible on the horizon during the final approach phase.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
Dramatic low-altitude views of the yachts and causeway bridge as the plane banks for its famous landing over Maho Beach.
The right side is the 'money side' for Bahamas views. For the best photography, opt for an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the shallow sandbars of the Exumas. During the landing at SXM, have your camera ready to catch the iconic low-pass over the turquoise waters of the bay.
Florida Gold Coast
Panoramic views of Dania Beach and the Atlantic coastline immediately following takeoff from FLL.
Abaco Islands
Aerial perspective of the northern Bahamas, featuring deep blue Atlantic waters contrasting with coral reefs.
Puerto Rico Trench
Flight path skims the northern edge of this massive underwater canyon, visible as a deep indigo sea transition.
Anguilla
A clear view of the long, flat coral island of Anguilla and its famous white sand beaches just before landing.
Saint Martin North Coast
Aerial views of the French side of the island, including Grand Case and the lush hills of Pic Paradis.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is superior for spotting Anguilla's unique geography during the final five minutes of the flight. Watch for the stark transition from deep ocean to the shallow, turquoise waters of the Anguilla bank.
Distance: 1,968 km (1,223 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min
Departure: FLL (26.072599, -80.152702)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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