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NOU โ WLS
Which side of the plane to sit from La Tontouta International Airport (Noumea) to Hihifo Airport (Wallis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of New Caledonia's rugged mountain ranges and the UNESCO-listed lagoon upon departure, followed by the best angles of the Loyalty Islands and the approach into Wallis's turquoise lagoon.
Grande Terre Mountains
Aerial views of the 'Chaรฎne Centrale' mountain range stretching across New Caledonia's main island.
UNESCO World Heritage Lagoon
Vibrant turquoise water patterns and intricate reef systems surrounding Noumea.
Loyalty Islands
Clear views of Lifou or Marรฉ islands, appearing as raised coral plateaus in the deep blue ocean.
Wallis Barrier Reef
The stunning continuous coral ring that encircles the entire island of Wallis during descent.
Mont Lulu Fakahega
The highest volcanic peak on Wallis, visible as you bank toward Hihifo Airport.
Sit on the left (Seat A) to see the dramatic New Caledonian coastline. For the best photography of the reefs, choose a morning flight to avoid the glare of the western sun on the water. Ensure you are seated ahead of the wing to capture the Loyalty Islands without obstruction.
Great South Lagoon
Expansive views of the reef systems extending south toward the Isle of Pines.
Havannah Passage
The deep-water channel used by international shipping to navigate the reef barrier.
Pacific Blue
Deep oceanic vistas where the water color shifts dramatically over underwater plateaus.
Lac Lalolalo
A glimpse of the perfectly circular, red-walled volcanic crater lake on Wallis during final approach.
The right side is excellent for seeing the southern reefs of New Caledonia. On arrival in Wallis, if the plane approaches from the north, this side offers the best view of the traditional coastal villages and the crater lakes dotting the interior.
Distance: 2,101 km (1,306 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 48 min
Departure: NOU (-22.01460075378418, 166.21299743652344)
Arrival: WLS (-13.2383003235, -176.19900512700002)
Route Type: International
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