Loading map...

NOS destination photo
TNR destination photo

NOSTNR

Which side of the plane to sit from Fascene Airport (Nosy-be) to Ivato Airport (Antananarivo)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side provides a spectacular perspective of Madagascar's coastline, including the iconic red sediment of the Betsiboka River and the turquoise waters of the Mozambique Channel.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Nosy Komba and Tanikely

Stunning immediate views of the smaller volcanic islands and coral reefs surrounding Nosy Be during the initial climb.

🌊

Mozambique Channel

Endless views of the deep blue channel contrasting with the white sand fringes of the western coastline.

🔴

Betsiboka Estuary

The most famous aerial view in Madagascar: where the red-silted river meets the sea, creating a 'bleeding' effect in the water near Mahajanga.

🌅

Coastal Sunset

On late afternoon flights, this side offers front-row seats to the sun setting over the Indian Ocean horizon.

Request a window seat on the right for the iconic Betsiboka Delta view, which usually appears about mid-way through the flight. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the reef formations around Nosy Be, which are particularly vibrant in midday light.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏔️

Tsaratanana Massif

Distant views of Madagascar's highest mountain range, Maromokotro, rising to the northeast during the initial cruise phase.

🌿

Sofia River Basin

Aerial views of the lush, winding river systems that feed the northern agricultural plains of the island.

🌾

Highland Terraces

The characteristic sight of emerald-green rice paddies carved into the red clay hills as the aircraft ascends to the High Plateau.

🏘️

Antananarivo Outskirts

A panoramic view of the densely packed, colorful brick houses and steep hills that define the capital city's landscape.

On morning flights, the sun rises from the east, providing excellent front-lighting for the mountains and rice paddies on the left. This side is ideal for capturing the textural details of the inland geography without the harsh glare of the ocean.

Top Activities in Antananarivo
Route Information

Distance: 616 km (383 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min

Departure: NOS (-13.3121004105, 48.3148002625)

Arrival: TNR (-18.7969, 47.478802)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.