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HIR → CHY
Which side of the plane to sit from Honiara International Airport (Honiara) to Choiseul Bay Airport (Choiseul Bay)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Western Province's volcanic drama, specifically the iconic symmetrical cone of Mount Kolombangara and the sprawling Russell Islands.
Russell Islands
Aerial views of circular coral atolls and extensive coconut plantations shortly after takeoff from Honiara.
Mount Kolombangara
A magnificent, nearly perfectly symmetrical dormant volcanic cone rising 1,770 meters from the Solomon Sea.
New Georgia Group
The edge of the Marovo Lagoon and the rugged, densely forested peaks of the New Georgia archipelago.
Vella Gulf
The deep blue expanse separating the Western Province islands, known for its clear waters and marine biodiversity.
Vella Lavella
Views of the diverse coastline and rugged interior of one of the westernmost islands in the chain.
Book a morning flight to avoid the midday 'cloud capping' common over volcanic peaks. Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of Kolombangara's peak. Use a polarized lens if photographing to cut through the sea glare and reveal the reef structures.
Ironbottom Sound
The historic stretch of water between Honiara and the Florida Islands, famous for numerous WWII shipwrecks.
Florida Islands (Ngella)
Intricate coastlines and the sheltered waters of Tulagi, the former capital of the British Solomon Islands.
Santa Isabel Island
The longest island in the chain, featuring a continuous mountain spine and vast areas of pristine rainforest.
Manning Strait
A stunning turquoise passage filled with hundreds of tiny, uninhabited islets between Santa Isabel and Choiseul.
Choiseul Coastline
Dense tropical wilderness and fringing reefs as the aircraft descends into Choiseul Bay.
The right side is excellent for spotting WWII historical sites near Honiara and the incredible turquoise patterns of the Manning Strait. Ensure your window is clean, as the low afternoon sun can create significant glare on this side during the return leg.
Distance: 503 km (313 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)
Arrival: CHY (-6.711944, 156.39611100000002)
Route Type: Domestic
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