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HIR → VLI
Which side of the plane to sit from Honiara International Airport (Honiara) to Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a front-row seat to the largest islands in Vanuatu and a spectacular descent over Mele Bay before landing at Bauerfield.
Makira Island
One of the largest islands in the Solomons, featuring rugged, densely forested terrain and deep valleys.
Espiritu Santo
Vanuatu's largest landmass, known for its high peaks and expansive coconut plantations.
Lopevi Volcano
A stunning, isolated volcanic cone that juts sharply out of the Coral Sea.
Mele Bay
Vibrant turquoise waters and coral reefs during the final approach into Port Vila.
Port Vila Cityscape
A panoramic view of the capital city, the harbor, and Iririki Island as the plane lines up for the runway.
The right side is ideal for capturing the iconic conical shape of Lopevi. During the descent into VLI, planes typically approach from the north and turn over the bay, making the right side the best for coastal photography.
Guadalcanal Shores
Aerial views of the eastern tip of Guadalcanal and its surrounding coral reefs upon departure.
Gaua Volcano
View the massive caldera and Lake Letas on this volcanic island in the Banks group.
Maewo and Pentecost
Long, narrow islands with dramatic cliffs and steep green ridges.
Ambrym Caldera
Look for smoke and volcanic activity from the Marum and Benbow craters.
Epi Island
Crystal clear lagoons and small offshore islets visible as you head south.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun over the Pacific. Keep an eye out for the smoke plumes from Ambrym's active volcanoes mid-flight which are often visible even from high altitudes.
Distance: 1,282 km (797 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)
Arrival: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Route Type: International
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