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GEA destination photo
UVE destination photo

GEAUVE

Which side of the plane to sit from Nouméa Magenta Airport (Noumea) to Ouvéa Airport (Ouvea)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning panorama of the New Caledonian mainland coastline followed by the most iconic views of Ouvéa's turquoise lagoon and the famous Mouli Bridge during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Nouméa Peninsula

Aerial view of the capital's urban layout and the bustling bays of Magenta and Anse Vata.

⛰️

Mont-Dore

The striking red-colored mountain that dominates the landscape south of Nouméa.

🌊

UNESCO Lagoon

Vibrant shades of blue and turquoise across the Great Southern Lagoon, protected as a World Heritage site.

🌉

Mouli Bridge

The most famous landmark in Ouvéa, connecting the main island to Mouli across crystal clear water.

🏖️

Fayaoué Beach

A continuous 25-kilometer stretch of white sand that defines the western coast of the atoll.

Book a window seat on the left for the approach into Ouvéa; this is when you will see the dramatic contrast between the deep ocean and the shallow lagoon. Morning flights provide the best lighting for photography without reflection, as the sun will be behind you. The descent happens quickly over the lagoon, so stay alert as soon as the altitude drops.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏝️

Amédée Lighthouse

A distant view of the tall white lighthouse standing on the reef edge near Nouméa.

🐋

The Deep Channel

Deep blue waters of the Havannah Channel where whales can often be spotted during winter months.

🐚

Lekiny Cliffs

Rugged limestone formations and caves visible on the eastern windward side of the atoll.

☁️

Loyalty Islands Horizon

On very clear days, the silhouette of Lifou island can be seen on the eastern horizon.

The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun reflecting off the water. While less scenic during the final approach, it offers a better perspective of the eastern reef barrier and the rugged cliffs of the Pleiades. During July and August, keep a sharp eye out for humpback whale breaches in the open sea segments.

Top Activities in Ouvea
Route Information

Distance: 180 km (112 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)

Arrival: UVE (-20.640600204467773, 166.572998046875)

Route Type: Domestic

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