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OGG → ITO
Which side of the plane to sit from Kahului Airport (Kahului) to Hilo International Airport (Hilo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft is the premier choice for this short inter-island hop, offering a continuous panoramic view of the Big Island's majestic volcanic peaks and the dramatic cliffs of the Hamakua Coast during the descent into Hilo.
West Maui Mountains
Catch a glimpse of the jagged, emerald-green ridges of Mauna Kahalawai during the initial climb.
Mauna Kea
View the world's tallest mountain from sea floor to peak, often featuring white snow and high-altitude telescopes.
Waipio Valley
The 'Valley of the Kings' is visible as a deep, vertical-walled cleft in the Kohala coastline.
Hamakua Coast Waterfalls
Look for numerous waterfalls plunging hundreds of feet directly into the Pacific Ocean along the lush cliffs.
Mauna Loa
The massive profile of the world's largest subaerial volcano dominates the horizon to the south.
The right side is unbeatable for viewing the Big Island's topography. Try to book a seat in front of the wing to see the Hamakua Coast waterfalls clearly during the descent. Early morning flights (before 10:00 AM) are crucial for seeing Mauna Kea's summit before it is obscured by daily trade wind clouds. Look for the telescopes on the summit; they look like tiny white dots.
Haleakala Crater
A stunning view of Maui's 10,023-foot dormant volcano immediately after takeoff from Kahului.
Alenuihaha Channel
Watch the deep blue, often turbulent waters between Maui and the Big Island, a prime spot for whale watching in winter.
Laupahoehoe Point
A scenic peninsula on the Big Island's north shore known for its tragic tsunami history and crashing waves.
Hilo Bay Breakwater
View the massive wall protecting the harbor as the plane makes its final turn toward the runway.
Coconut Island
A small, lush island (Moku Ola) visible in Hilo Bay just before touchdown.
Sit on the left if you want the best possible view into the Haleakala Crater shortly after departure. This side is also excellent for spotting the Hilo coastline and harbor breakwater as the plane banks for its final approach. Morning flights offer the best lighting for Maui's peaks before the clouds roll in.
Distance: 195 km (121 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 20 min
Departure: OGG (20.8986, -156.429993)
Arrival: ITO (19.721399307250977, -155.04800415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
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