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MAA → RUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Chennai International Airport (Madras) to Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of Reunion Island's volcanic topography upon arrival and a superior perspective of the Coromandel Coast during departure from Chennai.
Chennai Marina Beach
Aerial view of one of the world's longest urban beaches and the bustling Chennai port immediately after takeoff.
The Palk Strait
Clear views of the shallow, turquoise waters separating India from Sri Lanka as you head south.
Equatorial Crossing
A vast expanse of the Indian Ocean where the deep sapphire water meets the horizon at the zero-degree latitude.
Piton des Neiges
The massive shield volcano of Reunion Island, often visible emerging from the clouds as you descend.
Cirque de Salazie
Views of the lush, green volcanic amphitheaters and cascading waterfalls on the island's interior during the final approach.
Book a daytime flight to witness the dramatic transition from the Bay of Bengal to the volcanic peaks of the Mascarene Islands. On the approach to Roland Garros Airport, the left side typically faces the island's rugged interior, providing a stunning look at the 'Cirques'. Morning flights are preferred to avoid the heavy cloud cover that often builds up over Reunion's mountains by midday.
South Indian Hinterland
Views of the patchwork of agricultural fields and rural towns in the Tamil Nadu region.
Kanyakumari Tip
The southernmost point of mainland India where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge.
Remote Shipping Lanes
Frequent sightings of large cargo vessels traversing the vital maritime routes of the central Indian Ocean.
Mauritius Silhouette
On clear days, the neighboring island of Mauritius may be visible on the northern horizon before the final turn to Reunion.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunset if flying on an afternoon schedule, as the flight path is generally south-southwest. While mostly ocean-facing, it provides a better view of the coastal city of St.-Denis during the final moments of landing if the aircraft approaches from the west.
Distance: 4,631 km (2,878 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 27 min
Departure: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)
Arrival: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)
Route Type: International
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