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MRU → RUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (Plaisance) to Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior as it offers a front-row seat to the dramatic volcanic interior of Reunion Island during the descent, including views of the lush cirques and the highest peaks of the Indian Ocean.
Blue Bay Marine Park
Visible immediately after takeoff from MRU, showcasing vibrant coral reefs and turquoise lagoons.
Black River Gorges
Dramatic views of the mountainous southwestern region of Mauritius as the plane heads toward the ocean.
Piton de la Fournaise
On clear days, one of the world's most active volcanoes can be seen in the distance to the south upon approaching Reunion.
Cirque de Salazie
A stunning view of the verdant, waterfall-laden caldera as the aircraft aligns for the runway at RUN.
Saint-Denis Coastline
The colorful rooftops and urban sprawl of Reunion's capital city appearing just before touchdown.
Book an early morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the cloud build-up that typically obscures the Reunion mountains by midday. Sit behind the wing for unobstructed views of the Cirque de Salazie. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight as the descent happens very quickly over the coastline.
Northern Islets
If the flight path loops north, you may see Coin de Mire and the Flat Island off the coast of Mauritius.
Port Louis Harbor
A distant glimpse of the bustling Mauritian capital and its industrial port area.
Mascarene Basin
Expansive views of the deep blue Indian Ocean, often dotted with cargo ships and local fishing vessels.
Reunion North Shore
Views of the rugged northern cliffs and the impressive coastal highway engineering known as the Route du Littoral.
The right side offers great views of the sun reflecting off the Indian Ocean during afternoon flights. While less scenic in terms of mountains, it provides a better perspective of the vastness of the Mascarene Plateau. Watch for whales in the channel between June and October.
Distance: 232 km (144 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 23 min
Departure: MRU (-20.430201, 57.683601)
Arrival: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)
Route Type: International
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