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ITO → HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Hilo International Airport (Hilo) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers spectacular views of the dramatic Molokai sea cliffs and the lush Hamakua Coast during departure, followed by a panoramic approach into Honolulu.
Mauna Kea
Observe the white domes of the world-class observatories perched atop the highest point in Hawaii.
Hamakua Coast
Deep green valleys and cascading waterfalls along the rugged northeastern coastline of the Big Island.
Molokai Sea Cliffs
The highest sea cliffs in the world, featuring dramatic emerald ridges dropping vertically into the ocean.
Mokulua Islands
The famous twin islets off Lanikai Beach, visible as the plane tracks along the windward coast of Oahu.
Honolulu Skyline
A full view of the city center and the Punchbowl Crater as the plane maneuvers for landing.
The right side is the 'money' seat for this route. It provides a front-row seat to the world's tallest sea cliffs on Molokai, which are inaccessible by car. For the best photos, book a seat in front of the wing to avoid engine heat blur, and choose an early morning flight to avoid the clouds that often obscure the mountain peaks by midday.
Mauna Loa
The world's largest shield volcano, showing off its massive slopes and recent lava flow scars shortly after takeoff.
Haleakala
A stunning view of Maui's highest peak rising above the clouds as you cross the Alenuihaha Channel.
Lanai and Kaho'olawe
Glimpses of the smaller, more secluded islands of the chain nestled in the blue Pacific waters.
Diamond Head
An iconic perspective of the volcanic tuff cone and the high-rises of Waikiki during the descent.
Pearl Harbor
Views of the historic harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial just before touchdown on the Reef Runway.
Sit on the left if you want a closer look at the active volcanic landscapes of the Big Island and the primary landmarks of Honolulu during the final approach. Morning flights offer the best lighting for Mauna Loa without the afternoon cloud buildup common in the tropics.
Distance: 348 km (216 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: ITO (19.721399307250977, -155.04800415039062)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: Domestic
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