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MKP destination photo
PPT destination photo

MKP โ†’ PPT

Which side of the plane to sit from Makemo Airport (Makemo) to Faa'a International Airport (Papeete)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled sequence of Tuamotu atolls including the Fakarava biosphere, followed by a dramatic approach that often showcases the spectacular volcanic peaks of Moorea before landing in Tahiti.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
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Fakarava Biosphere

Views of the enormous lagoon and the Garuae Pass, the widest pass in French Polynesia, known for its incredible marine biodiversity.

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Toau and Kaukura

A chain of coral atolls appearing like necklaces dropped in the deep blue Pacific Ocean.

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Moorea Island

During the descent into PPT, the right side usually gets a front-row seat to Moorea's jagged peaks and the deep bays of Opunohu and Cook.

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Papeete Waterfront

A clear view of the capital's harbor, the cruise ship terminal, and the urban landscape of Tahiti's northwest coast.

The right side is the 'money' side for this route. Specifically, as the plane descends into Faa'a, the pilot often tracks toward Moorea before turning back to the runway, offering world-class photos of the sister island. Use a polarized lens for your camera to cut through the haze and capture the intense colors of the coral reefs.

Left Side Highlights
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Departure from Makemo

Immediate views of the narrow coral rim and the vibrant turquoise inner lagoon as you climb away from the runway.

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Anaa Atoll

A stunning view of this oval-shaped atoll, known for its shallow lagoon that creates a unique emerald green reflection in the clouds above.

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Tahiti Iti

Aerial perspective of the smaller peninsula of Tahiti, featuring the rugged and inaccessible cliffs of the Te Pari coast.

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Teahupo'o Reef

From a distance, you can spot the breaks of the world-famous surf spot on the southern coast of the island.

Sit on the left if you want a detailed view of the 'Presqu'รฎle' (Tahiti Iti) and the southern reefs. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for the Anaa atoll reflection, but be prepared for high-altitude glare over the open ocean segments.

Top Activities in Papeete
Route Information

Distance: 641 km (398 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min

Departure: MKP (-16.583900451660153, -143.6580047607422)

Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)

Route Type: Domestic

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