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LAX → ITO
Which side of the plane to sit from Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles) to Hilo International Airport (Hilo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the iconic Mauna Kea summit and the lush, waterfall-laden Hamakua Coast during the descent into Hilo, all while avoiding the direct glare of the southern sun.
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Channel Islands
Look for Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands shortly after departure as the plane turns westward over the Pacific.
Mauna Kea Summit
View the world's tallest mountain from its sea-floor base, often featuring white observatory domes above the clouds.
Hamakua Coast
Witness the dramatic green cliffs and deep valleys of the northern coast during the standard arrival pattern.
Hilo Bay
A clear view of the breakwater and the crescent-shaped bay as the aircraft aligns with the runway.
Choose the right side to stay in the shade for most of the flight. The best views occur in the final 20 minutes of the journey. If the weather is clear, you can see the telescopes atop Mauna Kea. This side is also best for capturing the vibrant greens of the tropical rainforest surrounding Hilo.
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Santa Monica Bay
Catch a final glimpse of the California coastline and the busy beaches of the South Bay immediately after takeoff.
Mauna Loa
View the massive slopes of the world's largest shield volcano as you approach the island from the northeast.
Puna Coastline
See the rugged volcanic rocks and crashing waves of the Puna district shortly before touchdown.
While the left side offers a view of Mauna Loa, be prepared for significant sun glare throughout the flight as you head southwest. For early morning departures, the light is particularly harsh on this side, making photography difficult without a polarized filter.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for United StatesDistance: 3,937 km (2,446 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 38 min
Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Arrival: ITO (19.721399307250977, -155.04800415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
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