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MAU → PPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Maupiti Airport (Maupiti) to Faa'a International Airport (Papeete)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled panorama of the Society Islands, including direct views of the iconic Bora Bora lagoon, the twin islands of Raiatea and Taha'a, and the dramatic peaks of Moorea before landing.
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Maupiti Lagoon Farewell
A stunning aerial view of the narrow pass and the turquoise lagoon surrounding Mount Teurafaatiu as you depart.
Bora Bora & Mt. Otemanu
The most famous view in the Pacific, showcasing the contrast between the dark volcanic peaks and the multi-hued blue lagoon.
Taha'a and Raiatea
View the 'Vanilla Island' and the 'Sacred Island' sharing a single massive coral reef system.
Huahine's Lush Coast
Spot the deep bays and dense tropical forests of Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti as you fly past.
Moorea's Jagged Spires
Spectacular views of Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay framed by the vertical green cathedral peaks of Moorea.
Papeete Harbor
As the plane banks for arrival, see the bustling maritime traffic and the capital city's waterfront.
Choose a seat in the front or rear of the cabin to avoid the engine housing on the ATR aircraft. Morning flights (8 AM - 11 AM) are ideal as the sun is high enough to illuminate the lagoon colors but low enough to avoid the harsh midday haze. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff from Maupiti for the best lagoon shots.
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Society Island Reef Edges
Observe the dramatic drop-off where the shallow turquoise reef meets the deep indigo of the open Pacific Ocean.
Pacific Horizon
Unobstructed views of the vast ocean and characteristic tropical cloud formations over the 'Blue Continent'.
Tahiti's Volcanic Slopes
On final approach, see the steep, waterfall-carved valleys of Tahiti Nui's western coastline.
Faa'a Runway Approach
A close-up view of the over-water runway construction and the reef surrounding the airport area.
While less scenic for island spotting, the right side is better for avoiding direct sun glare during afternoon flights. It offers a more tranquil view of the open sea and a great perspective of the reef structure surrounding Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport during the final seconds of the flight.
Book Hotels in PapeeteDistance: 307 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: MAU (-16.42650032043457, -152.24400329589844)
Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Route Type: Domestic
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