Loading map...

ILP destination photo
GEA destination photo

ILPGEA

Our Recommendation
9.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Southern Lagoon, featuring breathtaking turquoise water, intricate reef patterns, and the iconic Amédée Lighthouse on approach.

Left Side Highlights
9.5
🏝️

Oro Bay & Upi Bay

Immediately after takeoff, witness the turquoise natural pools and traditional pirogues (outrigger canoes) navigating the rock-strewn bays.

🌊

The Great Barrier Reef

A continuous view of the world's second-largest coral reef system, showcasing vibrant shades of azure and emerald.

🗼

Amédée Lighthouse

Watch for the tall, white iron lighthouse standing on a tiny coral cay near the Boulari Passage.

⛱️

Îlot Maître & Escapade

Aerial views of the overwater bungalows and shallow sandbars just minutes before touching down in Nouméa.

Sit on the left for the most classic 'South Pacific' lagoon views. To see the colors at their most vibrant, choose a flight between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when the sun is overhead. Note that Air Calédonie often operates with free seating, so arrive at the gate early to secure your preferred side.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🌲

Columnar Pine Coastline

Dense stands of the endemic Araucaria columnaris trees lining the jagged limestone cliffs of the Isle of Pines.

🔴

The 'Grand Sud' Red Earth

The striking contrast of New Caledonia's iron-rich red soil against the deep green shrubland and blue ocean.

⛰️

Mont-Dore

The massive, barren 'Golden Mountain' that dominates the landscape south of the capital city.

🏙️

Nouméa City & Bays

A comprehensive view of the peninsula, including the high-end hotels of Anse Vata and the yachts in Baie des Citrons.

The right side is excellent for photography enthusiasts interested in the island's unique geology and the red nickel-rich mountains. During the late afternoon, the 'Grand Sud' mountains glow with warm orange hues, though the sun may cause glare if you are looking toward the water.

Top Activities in Noumea
Route Information

Distance: 108 km (67 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 min

Departure: ILP (-22.58889961242676, 167.45599365234375)

Arrival: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.