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HNL → LIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu) to Lihue Airport (Lihue)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning continuous view of Oahu's western coastline followed by a dramatic approach past the rugged southern mountains of Kauai.
Pearl Harbor
Clear views of the USS Arizona Memorial and the historic naval shipyard immediately after departure from HNL.
Waianae Mountain Range
Aerial perspective of Mount Ka'ala and the ancient volcanic ridges that define the leeward side of Oahu.
Ka'ena Point
The remote, westernmost tip of Oahu where the rugged coastline meets the deep blue of the Ka'ie'ie Waho Channel.
Poipu Coastline
Kauai's sunny southern shore and popular beach resorts visible as the aircraft begins its final descent.
Haupu Mountain Range
Jagged, emerald-green peaks that run alongside the flight path just before the wheels touch down in Lihue.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh afternoon sun glare over the ocean. This side is consistently better for seeing the transition from the dry leeward side of Oahu to the lush landscape of Kauai. Aim for a seat ahead of the wing (Rows 1-10) to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the reefs and mountains.
Honolulu Skyline
A glimpse of the high-rises and the edge of Waikiki during the initial climb out of the airport.
Central Oahu
Views of the red dirt fields and agricultural land sitting between the two major mountain ranges of Oahu.
Oahu North Shore
Distant views of the famous surf breaks like Pipeline and Waimea Bay if the flight takes a more northerly heading.
Nawiliwili Bay
The industrial and recreational harbor of Lihue, often featuring large cruise ships, visible seconds before landing.
Mount Waialeale
Distant views of the center of Kauai, known as one of the wettest spots on Earth, often shrouded in dramatic clouds.
The right side is ideal if you want to see the 'Garden Isle' interior mountains upon arrival. If the flight path circles Lihue from the north, you may even catch a glimpse of the Kilauea Lighthouse. Afternoon flights provide better lighting for this side of the aircraft, as the sun will be behind you.
Distance: 163 km (101 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 16 min
Departure: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Arrival: LIH (21.97599983215332, -159.33900451660156)
Route Type: Domestic
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