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NAN destination photo
LBS destination photo

NANLBS

Which side of the plane to sit from Nadi International Airport (Nandi) to Labasa Airport (Lambasa)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers unparalleled views of the turquoise coral reefs and the Great Sea Reef as you approach Vanua Levu, alongside distant views of the Mamanuca chain upon departure.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏝️

Mamanuca Islands

Distant views of the northern Mamanuca chain visible shortly after takeoff from Nadi.

🌊

Bligh Water

Fly over the deep blue waters separating Fiji's two main islands, dotted with hidden coral patches.

🪸

Great Sea Reef

Glimpse the southern edge of Cakaulevu, the world's third-longest barrier reef, shimmering in shades of cyan.

🏖️

Macuata Coastline

Dramatic aerial perspectives of the rugged northern coastline of Vanua Levu with its pristine beaches.

🛶

Labasa River Delta

The intricate winding channels of the Labasa River and its mangrove systems during final descent.

Book an early morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to catch the best lighting on the coral reefs and avoid the tropical clouds that often build up over Vanua Levu in the afternoon. Since these flights are often operated by smaller ATR or Twin Otter aircraft, a window seat is essential as the low flight altitude provides exceptional detail of the sea floor.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Sabeto Mountains

Views of the 'Sleeping Giant' mountain range immediately after departing Nadi.

🌋

Viti Levu Highlands

Looking inland toward the rugged, volcanic interior of Viti Levu as the aircraft turns northeast.

🌊

Koro Sea

Wide vistas of the open sea and the occasional sight of local fishing vessels crossing between islands.

🌳

Vanua Levu Interior

Dense, lush rainforest canopies and high peaks like Mount Seseleka as you cross the island.

🏠

Labasa Town

A clear view of the bustling sugar town and its iconic mill as the plane aligns with the runway.

The right side is ideal if you prefer looking at the dramatic mountain geography of the mainland. Watch for the 'Sleeping Giant' profile right after takeoff. On the approach to Labasa, keep an eye out for the vast sugarcane fields that characterize this region's economy. Polarized sunglasses are highly recommended to cut through the ocean glare for better reef visibility even on this side.

Top Activities in Lambasa
Route Information

Distance: 247 km (153 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 25 min

Departure: NAN (-17.755399703979492, 177.4429931640625)

Arrival: LBS (-16.466699600219727, 179.33999633789062)

Route Type: Domestic

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