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HIR → BNE
Which side of the plane to sit from Honiara International Airport (Honiara) to Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the historic Iron Bottom Sound and Savo Island at departure, followed by the iconic Glass House Mountains and the Brisbane city skyline during the descent.
Iron Bottom Sound
The historic site of numerous WWII naval battles between Guadalcanal and Florida Islands, often clearly visible after takeoff.
Savo Island
A perfectly circular volcanic island known for its resident megapodes and dramatic history during the Pacific Campaign.
Chesterfield Reefs
Remote coral cays in the Coral Sea that appear as vibrant turquoise specks amidst the deep ocean.
Glass House Mountains
Striking volcanic plugs rising abruptly from the Sunshine Coast coastal plain during the initial descent phase.
Brisbane City Skyline
Sweeping views of the winding Brisbane River and the high-rise CBD buildings as the aircraft turns for final approach.
The right side is essential for military history enthusiasts to see the Solomon Islands' battlefields. For the best experience, try to fly in the late afternoon to capture the Glass House Mountains silhouetted against the sunset. During the BNE approach, this side typically offers a more direct view of the city center and the Port of Brisbane.
Southern Guadalcanal
Aerial views of the rugged, dense tropical rainforests and remote villages along the southern coastline of the main island.
Rennell Island
The world's largest raised coral atoll, featuring Lake Tegano, a UNESCO World Heritage site visible as a massive internal lagoon.
Coral Sea Expanse
A vast stretch of deep indigo waters between the Solomon Islands and the Australian continent.
Moreton Island
Stunning views of the massive white sand dunes and the turquoise waters of the Tangalooma Wrecks on approach.
Stradbroke Island
Look for the distinct coastline of North Stradbroke Island and potential whale migrations during winter months.
Choose the left side for morning departures to minimize glare from the sun. This side provides the best perspective of the unique geography of Rennell Island. On arrival, if the flight enters via the southern approach, you will have a front-row seat to the pristine beaches of the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Distance: 2,125 km (1,320 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 50 min
Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)
Arrival: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Route Type: International
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