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MOZ destination photo
PPT destination photo

MOZPPT

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a direct view of Moorea's turquoise lagoons upon departure and a stunning panoramic of the Papeete harbor and Tahiti's coastline as you approach Faa'a International Airport.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏖️

Temae Beach

A stunning stretch of white sand and multi-hued turquoise water just past the runway at Moorea.

🌊

Sea of the Moon

The deep blue channel between Moorea and Tahiti, often dotted with ferry traffic and catamarans.

⚓

Papeete Harbor

A bird's eye view of the bustling port, including international cruise ships and inter-island cargo vessels.

🏙️

Papeete Cityscape

The dense urban center of French Polynesia, contrasting the lush green mountains behind it.

Sit on the left for the most iconic views of the lagoon's edge when leaving Moorea. Since the flight is extremely short (10-15 minutes), have your camera ready immediately. Morning flights provide better light on the lagoons, as the sun is behind you while looking south towards Tahiti's coast.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
⛰️

Mount Tohivea

Moorea's highest peak, showcasing its dramatic, jagged volcanic profile as the plane ascends.

🛶

Vaiare Bay

The main ferry terminal on Moorea, surrounded by steep cliffs and coral reef barriers.

🏠

Overwater Bungalows

Aerial views of the luxury resorts lining the eastern coast of Moorea.

🌋

Tahiti Nui Peaks

The cloud-shrouded interior mountains of Tahiti, including the majestic Orohena.

🛫

Faa'a Runway Extension

Experience the unique perspective of landing on a runway built directly onto the coral reef flats.

The right side is ideal for seeing the dramatic interior peaks of both islands. During the winter months (June-August), keep an eye out for humpback whale breaches in the channel between the islands. Choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion for photos.

Top Activities in Papeete
Route Information

Distance: 18 km (11 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 min

Departure: MOZ (-17.49, -149.761993)

Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)

Route Type: Domestic

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