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KKR → PPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Kaukura Airport (Kaukura Atoll) to Faa'a International Airport (Papeete)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is premier for this route because it offers a spectacular perspective of the island of Moorea during the final approach into Papeete, as well as a likely sighting of the private Tetiaroa Atoll.
Kaukura Outer Reef
Observe the white foam of the Pacific crashing against the narrow coral rim of the atoll.
Tetiaroa Atoll
Look for the exclusive island once owned by Marlon Brando, visible as a perfect ring of sand and coconut trees.
The Silhouette of Moorea
The world-famous heart-shaped island appears on the horizon during the descent, showcasing its jagged volcanic spires.
Sea of the Moon
The vibrant channel between Tahiti and Moorea is often dotted with sailboats and inter-island ferries.
Faa'a Lagoon Reef
The final seconds of flight offer clear views into the emerald reefs surrounding the airport runway.
The right side is iconic for the approach. About 15 minutes before landing, keep your eyes peeled for Tetiaroa. As you descend further, the view of Moorea across the water is arguably the best scenic view in French Polynesia aviation.
Kaukura Atoll Lagoon
Witness the stunning contrast between the shallow turquoise lagoon and the deep blue Pacific immediately after takeoff.
Tuamotu Blue
The middle portion of the flight offers endless vistas of the deep indigo ocean characteristic of the South Pacific.
Mt. Orohena
On the approach, look for Tahiti's highest peak, often shrouded in dramatic tropical clouds.
Matavai Bay
View the historic anchorage where Captain Cook and the HMS Bounty once dropped anchor.
Papeete Waterfront
A bird's-eye view of the bustling capital city, the harbor, and the colorful local architecture as you land.
Sit on the left if you want to see the rugged, vertical mountains of Tahiti's interior. Morning flights provide the best lighting for photography on this side as the sun highlights the green ridges of the Papenoo Valley.
Distance: 358 km (222 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 36 min
Departure: KKR (-15.663299560546877, -146.88499450683594)
Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Route Type: Domestic
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