Loading map...
HNL → CXI
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Cassidy International Airport (Kiritimati)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most iconic views of the Honolulu coastline upon departure and provides a superior vantage point for the intricate inner lagoon systems of Kiritimati during the landing sequence.
Search flights from HNL to CXI
Diamond Head
A breathtaking look into the historic volcanic tuff cone crater shortly after takeoff from Honolulu.
Waikiki Skyline
Unparalleled views of the dense hotel row and the bright turquoise waters of the South Shore.
Central Lagoon Maze
View of the world's largest atoll's interior, featuring hundreds of small hypersaline ponds and flats.
Eastern Capes
The rugged windward coastline of Kiritimati where the Pacific swells crash against the reef.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the classic Honolulu departure view. Since most flights to Kiritimati arrive in the late morning, the sun will be high or to the north/east, making the left side better for photography without direct sun glare. Watch for the change in water color about 15 minutes before touchdown.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Kiribati
Pearl Harbor
A distant view of the historic naval base and the USS Arizona Memorial if the plane turns west.
Waianae Range
The dramatic, jagged ridges of Oahu's older western mountain range as you head south.
London Village
The main settlement and port of Kiritimati, visible on the western tip during the final approach.
Reef Drop-offs
Stunning visibility of the deep blue 'wall' where the atoll shelf plunges into the abyss.
The right (Starboard) side is excellent for viewing the western settlements and the main shipping channel of Christmas Island. If you are a history buff, this side occasionally gets a better angle on the military infrastructure of Pearl Harbor during specific departure patterns. Use a polarized lens for photos to cut through the ocean reflection.
Book Hotels in KiritimatiDistance: 2,151 km (1,337 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 52 min
Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Arrival: CXI (1.9861600399017332, -157.35000610351562)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.