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KDO → MLE
Which side of the plane to sit from Kadhdhoo Airport (Laamu Atoll) to Malé International Airport (Male)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the western rim of the central atolls and provides an iconic aerial perspective of the densely packed Malé city during the final approach, benefiting from optimal lighting in the afternoon.
Northern Laamu Rim
Intricate turquoise reef structures and sandbanks immediately after takeoff from Kadhdhoo.
Thaa Atoll Western Edge
A sequence of perfectly circular faros (small atolls within an atoll) visible against the deep blue ocean.
Faafu Atoll Horizons
Distant views of remote resort islands and traditional Maldivian dhonis traversing the inner sea.
Malé City Skyline
The breathtaking sight of the world's most densely populated capital island appearing like a concrete forest in the ocean.
Commercial Harbor
A bird's-eye view of the bustling international port area just moments before touchdown.
Book an afternoon flight to ensure the sun is behind you, providing the best saturation for photography of the turquoise lagoons. Request a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze obscuring the view of Malé city during the descent.
Meemu Atoll Pearls
A stunning chain of small, uninhabited islands linked by vibrant coral reefs on the eastern side of the flight path.
Vaavu Atoll Channels
Views of some of the Maldives' deepest and most famous diving channels, recognizable by the sharp contrast between light and dark blue water.
South Malé Resorts
Close-up views of luxury overwater bungalow configurations that look like intricate jewelry from the air.
Hulhumalé Development
The massive reclaimed island featuring modern urban planning and the bridge connecting it to the airport.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. Keep your camera ready as you pass Vaavu Atoll, as the reef formations here are particularly dramatic and close to the typical flight path.
Distance: 259 km (161 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: KDO (1.8591699600219729, 73.52189636230469)
Arrival: MLE (4.1918301582336435, 73.52909851074219)
Route Type: Domestic
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