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HOI → GMR
Which side of the plane to sit from Hao Airport (Hao Island) to Totegegie Airport (Totegegie)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views, particularly during the approach to Totegegie, where the high volcanic peaks of the Gambier Islands contrast beautifully with the surrounding coral lagoon.
Pinaki Atoll
A small, nearly circular and closed atoll that looks like a perfect ring from the air.
Mount Duff
The iconic volcanic peak of Mangareva Island, which dominates the horizon as you enter the Gambier airspace.
Gambier Lagoon
Incredible gradients of blue and green water surrounding the mountainous islands of the archipelago.
Rikitea Village
The main settlement of Mangareva can often be spotted across the water during the descent into Totegegie.
The right side is essential for seeing the volcanic islands of Mangareva, which are a rare sight in this region of mostly flat atolls. For the best photography of the Gambier lagoon's colors, a flight between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM is recommended when the sun is high and reflects the most vibrant blues.
Hao Atoll Lagoon
Exiting Hao, you get a sprawling view of its massive inner lagoon, one of the largest in the Tuamotus.
Amanu Atoll
Visible shortly after takeoff, this atoll features a stunning turquoise perimeter and deep blue ocean surrounds.
Marutea Sud
An isolated atoll famous for its high-quality black pearl farms, visible as small structures in the lagoon.
Totegegie Approach
A view of the reef-side runway as the plane maneuvers for its final landing sequence.
Sit on the left if you want to see the full scale of the Hao atoll during departure. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to spot the remote pearl farming atolls. Morning flights provide excellent soft lighting for the coral colors on this side.
Distance: 841 km (523 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: HOI (-18.074800491333008, -140.9459991455078)
Arrival: GMR (-23.07990074157715, -134.88999938964844)
Route Type: Domestic
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