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PDX โ HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Portland International Airport (Portland) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is significantly superior for the arrival phase into Honolulu. As the aircraft typically approaches from the east, passengers on the left side are treated to a panoramic view of the Oahu coastline, including Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, and the Waikiki skyline before landing.
Oregon Coastline
Aerial views of the rugged cliffs and beaches around Tillamook and Lincoln City shortly after departure.
Pacific Expanse
Vast views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean with frequent sightings of complex marine cloud formations.
Molokai & Lanai
On clear days, the islands of Molokai and Lanai are visible in the distance during the initial descent.
Diamond Head
A world-class view of the iconic volcanic crater as the plane aligns for the southern approach to HNL.
Waikiki Skyline
The dense high-rises of Honolulu and the turquoise waters of Waikiki Beach just minutes before touchdown.
Book a window seat on the left (Port) side for the 'Postcard' arrival. For morning flights from PDX, the sun will be behind you or to the south, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Hawaiian Islands. Watch for the change in water color from deep navy to bright turquoise as you cross the reef near Honolulu.
Columbia River Mouth
A dramatic view of the massive river meeting the Pacific Ocean near Astoria, Oregon.
Long Beach Peninsula
The distinctively long, thin sandy spit of southwest Washington stretching northward.
Pearl Harbor
An excellent view of the historic naval base and the USS Arizona Memorial on the final approach.
Waiโanae Range
The older, more eroded mountain peaks of western Oahu visible during the landing pattern.
The right side is ideal for seeing the mouth of the Columbia River immediately after takeoff. On arrival, it provides the best view of Pearl Harbor and the Ewa Plains. This side is also preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun glare that often hits the left side during the descent into Hawaii.
Distance: 4,188 km (2,602 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 56 min
Departure: PDX (45.58869934, -122.5979996)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: Domestic
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