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NGS → IKI
Which side of the plane to sit from Nagasaki Airport (Nagasaki) to Iki Airport (Iki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a spectacular vantage point for the intricate coastline of Nagasaki, featuring the dense cluster of Kujukushima islands and the deep-water port of Sasebo.
Omura Bay
View of the calm 'inland sea' surrounding the airport, often filled with small pearl cultivation rafts.
Sasebo Harbor
A glimpse of the major naval base and industrial cranes set against steep, forested hills.
Kujukushima Islands
The '99 Islands' appearing as a maze of emerald green islets scattered in the blue East China Sea.
Saikai Bridges
Iconic structural landmarks connecting the Saikai Peninsula with the mainland over narrow, swirling tidal currents.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic island scenery. Since this is a short hop usually flown at lower altitudes, the detail of the Kujukushima islands is exceptional. Morning flights offer the best lighting as the sun is behind you, illuminating the green islands against the blue water without glare.
Mount Tara
The dominant volcanic massif on the border of Nagasaki and Saga prefectures visible shortly after takeoff.
Nijino-matsubara
The famous 'Rainbow Pine Grove,' a 4.5km long arc of black pines along the Karatsu coastline.
Karatsu Bay
View of the scenic bay including the 'Dancing Crane' Karatsu Castle perched near the water's edge.
Yobuko Port
A historic fishing port known for its squid, visible just before the flight heads out over the Genkai Sea.
The right side is ideal for seeing the mainland Saga coastline. In the late afternoon, the 'Golden Hour' light hits the Karatsu coastline beautifully. Keep an eye out for the distinct curved shape of the pine forest (Nijino-matsubara) which is one of the top scenic spots in Japan.
Distance: 93 km (58 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 min
Departure: NGS (32.916900634799994, 129.914001465)
Arrival: IKI (33.7490005493, 129.785003662)
Route Type: Domestic
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