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MAU destination photo
RFP destination photo

MAURFP

Which side of the plane to sit from Maupiti Airport (Maupiti) to Raiatea Airport (Raiatea Island)?

Our Recommendation
9.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a world-class aerial view of Bora Bora's iconic silhouette and the surrounding coral reefs of Taha'a as you approach Raiatea.

Left Side Highlights
9.8
🏝️

Maupiti Lagoon

Bird's-eye view of the stunning turquoise waters and sandbars surrounding Maupiti immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Bora Bora Panorama

Unrivaled views of Mount Otemanu and the famous overwater bungalow resorts as the flight passes south of the atoll.

🐚

Taha'a Island

Detailed views of the 'Vanilla Island' and its vast northern coral reef system shared with Raiatea.

🌊

Motu Tautau

Sightings of the pristine islets on the western edge of the Taha'a lagoon before banking for landing.

Sit on the left (Port) side to capture the legendary view of Bora Bora. This is a very short flight (approx. 20 mins), so have your camera ready immediately. Morning flights (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM) are best to avoid the afternoon sun glare reflecting off the lagoon waters. Request a seat not over the wing on the ATR aircraft to ensure an unobstructed downward view of the reefs.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🧗

Mount Teurafaatiu

Dramatic view of Maupiti's highest volcanic peak and its sheer rock faces during departure.

🌊

The Deep Blue

Observation of the 'Te Ava Piti' pass where the ocean meets the lagoon at Raiatea.

⛰️

Mount Temehani

The sacred plateau of Raiatea, home to the endemic and rare Tiare Apetahi flower.

⛵

Uturoa Harbor

The bustling nautical hub and main town of Raiatea visible just before touchdown.

While the left is more scenic for Bora Bora, the right side offers the best look at the rugged interior mountains of Raiatea upon descent. If you prefer geological features and the steep cliffs of the volcanic islands over the lagoons, this side provides a unique perspective of the 'Sacred Island's' topography.

Top Activities in Raiatea Island
Route Information

Distance: 89 km (55 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 min

Departure: MAU (-16.42650032043457, -152.24400329589844)

Arrival: RFP (-16.7229, -151.466003)

Route Type: Domestic

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