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HNL → ITO
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Hilo International Airport (Hilo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers world-class views of the dramatic Molokai sea cliffs and the lush, waterfall-heavy Hamakua Coast during the approach into Hilo.
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Diamond Head
An immediate aerial view of Hawaii's most iconic volcanic tuff cone and the Waikiki coastline after departure.
Molokai Sea Cliffs
Unrivaled views of the world's highest sea cliffs and the historic Kalaupapa Peninsula along Molokai's north shore.
West Maui Mountains
Deep green ridges and steep valleys of the Kahalawai region as you pass the northern tip of Maui.
Hamakua Coast Waterfalls
As the plane descends into Hilo, look for dozens of waterfalls cascading into the ocean along the rugged cliffside.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun illuminate the Molokai cliffs. This side is superior for the descent into Hilo as the flight path usually hugs the northern coastline, providing close-up views of tropical gulches and remote valleys inaccessible by car.
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Honolulu Skyline
A sweeping view of the downtown skyscrapers and the busy Honolulu Harbor shortly after takeoff.
Molokini Crater
The tiny, crescent-shaped volcanic caldera peeking out of the Alalakeiki Channel between Maui and Kahoolawe.
Haleakala Summit
A massive perspective of the 'House of the Sun' crater and its sprawling cinder cones from 10,000 feet.
Mauna Kea & Mauna Loa
Views of the Big Island's two giants, often topped with snow or housing the world's premier astronomical observatories.
Choose the right side if you want to see the southern coastlines of Lanai and Maui. This side is excellent for spotting the Mauna Kea telescopes on a clear day. During whale season (December-April), keep your eyes on the channels between the islands for breaches.
Book Hotels in HiloDistance: 348 km (216 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Arrival: ITO (19.721399307250977, -155.04800415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
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