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GAN destination photo
MLE destination photo

GANMLE

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more consistent vantage point of the interior lagoon structures and the vast reef systems of the central atolls as you travel north from the Southern Hemisphere.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Addu Atoll

Catch the full view of the heart-shaped southern atoll and its inhabited islands connected by causeways immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Huvadhu Lagoon

Soar over one of the largest and deepest lagoons in the world, characterized by an immense collection of inner-atoll reefs.

🔘

Thaa Atoll

Observe the stunningly symmetrical circular reef formations of the Kolhumadulu region appearing as vibrant turquoise rings.

🏖️

South Malé Atoll

Identify several world-famous luxury resorts and their signature overwater villas as the aircraft begins its descent towards the capital.

Choose the left side for morning departures to avoid the sun's glare, which can be intense over the water. This side is particularly spectacular for viewing the deep-water channels, known as 'Kandu,' that separate the atolls. Keep your camera ready approximately 20 minutes into the flight for the Huvadhu crossing.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌐

Equator Crossing

Look out over the open ocean as you cross the zero-degree latitude line, transitioning from the Southern to the Northern Hemisphere.

🛤️

Laamu Link Road

Spot the long chain of islands on the eastern rim of Laamu Atoll, featuring one of the few road networks in the Maldives.

🐚

Meemu Atoll

Witness the distinctive shark-fin shape of this atoll, famous for its narrow passages and vibrant coral fringes.

🏙️

Malé City

Enjoy a panoramic view of the densely packed island capital and the adjacent industrial islands just before landing at Velana International.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to capture the 'Golden Hour' lighting over the eastern atoll rims. On the final approach to MLE, this side usually offers a superior view of the Malé skyline and the airport island of Hulhulé, depending on the prevailing wind direction and runway usage.

Top Activities in Male
Route Information

Distance: 545 km (339 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 55 min

Departure: GAN (-0.693342, 73.155602)

Arrival: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)

Route Type: Domestic

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