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KOA β HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning tropical vistas, the right side typically provides a dramatic view of the world's tallest sea cliffs on Molokai and the iconic panorama of Diamond Head and Waikiki during the approach to Honolulu.
Search flights from KOA to HNL
Kohala Coastline
The lush, jagged valleys of the Kohala Mountains are visible shortly after departure, offering a sharp contrast to the Kona desert.
Haleakala Crater
A massive perspective of Maui's 10,023-foot shield volcano, often poking through a blanket of white trade wind clouds.
Molokai Sea Cliffs
Spectacular views of the world's highest sea cliffs on Molokai's north shore, featuring isolated waterfalls dropping into the Pacific.
Diamond Head & Waikiki
The quintessential Hawaiian view: the famous tuff cone crater followed by the dense skyline of Waikiki Beach and the turquoise waters of MΔmala Bay.
The right side is the 'money seat' for the Honolulu approach. Ensure you have your camera ready about 5-8 minutes before landing; most flights track past Diamond Head, providing a perfect aerial photo of the crater and the city. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the afternoon sun.
Book Hotels in HonoluluKona Lava Fields
Dramatic view of the dark basaltic lava flows from Hualalai volcano contrasting against the turquoise ocean immediately after takeoff.
Lanai Views
Clear perspectives of the 'Pineapple Isle' and its rugged southern coastline as you traverse the Kealaikahiki Channel.
Kapolei and Ewa Beach
As the plane descends into HNL, views of Oahu's 'Second City' and the western shoreline come into focus.
Pearl Harbor
A direct view of the USS Arizona Memorial and the historic naval base just before touchdown on the Reef Runway.
Sit on the left if you prefer a clear view of the sprawling Pearl Harbor complex during final approach. This side is also excellent for sunset flights, as the sun will be setting over the ocean to your left, often creating vibrant reflections on the water.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 263 km (163 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: Domestic
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