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HIR → RNA
Which side of the plane to sit from Honiara International Airport (Honiara) to Ulawa Airport (Ulawa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the neighboring island groups and the historic Ironbottom Sound waters immediately after departure from Honiara.
Search flights from HIR to RNA
Honiara Coastline
Aerial view of the Solomon Islands capital, including the main wharf and the Point Cruz area.
Ironbottom Sound
The site of famous WWII naval battles, appearing as a vast, deep blue expanse between Guadalcanal and the Florida Islands.
Florida Islands
Distant but clear views of the Ngella group and the historic former capital of Tulagi to the north.
Indispensable Strait
The deep ocean passage between the central and eastern islands, often revealing turquoise reef edges.
Ulawa Reef Fringe
Vibrant coral structures encircling the island of Ulawa as the aircraft begins its final descent.
Morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the glare of the eastern sun and to catch the clearest views of the Florida Islands. In the Twin Otter aircraft typical for this route, try to sit at the very front for a unique perspective of the cockpit and the horizon, or behind the high-mounted wing to ensure your photos of the reef are not obstructed by the engine.
Get eSIMs for Solomon Islands
Get eSIMs for Solomon Islands
Mt. Popomanaseu
Views of the highest peak in the Solomon Islands, often surrounded by mystical tropical cloud cover.
Guadalcanal Highlands
Dense, prehistoric-looking tropical rainforests covering the rugged interior of the main island.
Lunga River
The meandering river that played a strategic role in the Battle of Guadalcanal, visible shortly after takeoff.
Coastal Settlements
Tiny, isolated villages along the southern coast of Guadalcanal accessible only by boat.
Ulawa Island Profile
The lush, green silhouette of the destination island rising from the Pacific as the flight nears its end.
Keep your camera ready during takeoff from Honiara, as the climb provides a panoramic look at the Henderson Field area. If you are flying in the late afternoon, this side will experience significant direct sunlight and heat, making it less comfortable than the left. Watch for the dramatic change in water color as you cross from the deep blues of the strait to the light greens of the Ulawa coastal shelf.
Book Hotels in UlawaDistance: 216 km (134 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 22 min
Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)
Arrival: RNA (-9.86054358262, 161.979546547)
Route Type: Domestic
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