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LAE → HKN
Which side of the plane to sit from Nadzab Airport (Nadzab) to Kimbe Airport (Hoskins)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an exceptional perspective of the Huon Gulf coastline and the dramatic volcanic landscape of New Britain, including active volcanic cones and the Nakanai Mountains.
Huon Gulf
The sparkling turquoise waters and tropical coastline visible immediately after departing Nadzab.
Finschhafen
The historic port and tip of the Huon Peninsula before the flight crosses the open water.
Mt. Pago Volcano
A highly active volcano near Hoskins featuring dramatic, dark lava flows and a prominent cinder cone.
Kimbe Bay
Renowned for its marine biodiversity, the bay offers stunning views of coral reefs on the descent.
Nakanai Mountains
Densely forested limestone massifs known for hosting some of the deepest caves in the world.
This is the 'volcano side.' Keep your camera ready as you approach New Britain to capture Mt. Pago and Mt. Gabuna. For the best lighting on the volcanoes and the Huon Gulf, a morning flight is highly recommended to avoid the harsh afternoon glare and typical tropical rainstorms.
Saruwaged Range
The rugged, cloud-piercing limestone peaks of the Huon Peninsula rise sharply to the north.
Vitiaz Strait
A deep-water passage between the mainland and the Bismarck Archipelago often dotted with cargo ships.
Umboi Island
A massive volcanic island situated in the Vitiaz Strait visible during the mid-flight transit.
Willaumez Peninsula
A long, narrow volcanic strip of land jutting into the Bismarck Sea north of Kimbe.
Sit on the left for wide-angle views of the Bismarck Sea. Try to book a morning flight, as the Saruwaged Range is often obscured by heavy cumulus clouds by midday. Look for the distinct coral reefs surrounding the smaller offshore islands.
Distance: 425 km (264 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: LAE (-6.569803, 146.725977)
Arrival: HKN (-5.462170124053955, 150.40499877929688)
Route Type: Domestic
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