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PNQ destination photo
MAA destination photo

PNQMAA

Which side of the plane to sit from Pune Airport (Pune) to Chennai International Airport (Madras)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is preferred for the final approach into Chennai, offering a higher probability of viewing the Bay of Bengal coastline and the expansive Pulicat Lake before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌾

Deccan Plateau Mosaic

Aerial view of the vast agricultural patchwork and rural settlements across the Maharashtra-Karnataka border.

💧

Ujani Reservoir

A massive body of water on the Bhima River visible shortly after departure from Pune.

⛰️

Eastern Ghats

The rugged, ancient ridges of the Seshachalam and Nallamala hills as the flight crosses into Andhra Pradesh.

🌊

Pulicat Lake

A stunning brackish water lagoon that marks the boundary between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu near the coast.

⛴️

Ennore Port

The industrial docks and cargo ships lined up along the northern Chennai coastline during descent.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sunrise over the Bay of Bengal during descent. This side usually offers a clear view of the coastline if the aircraft approaches from the north. Watch for the distinct change in soil color from the black Deccan soil to the red soils of the south.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Sahyadri Horizons

Distant views of the Western Ghats' eastern slopes visible during the initial climb from Pune.

🌊

Tungabhadra River

The winding path of one of South India's major rivers crossing through the semi-arid plains.

🪨

Granite Boulder Landscapes

Unique geological formations and rocky outcrops characteristic of the region around Hampi and Bellary.

🏢

Chennai Urban Sprawl

A comprehensive view of the dense urban landscape of West Chennai and the IT corridors.

✈️

MAA Airport Perimeter

Excellent views of the secondary runway and the Adyar River which flows through the airport boundary.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as it avoids the harsh glare of the sun. It provides a better perspective of the sprawling city landscape of Chennai during the final banking maneuvers. Look out for the massive Chembarambakkam Lake, a key water source for the city, on your right during the final 10 minutes.

Top Activities in Madras
Route Information

Distance: 913 km (567 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: PNQ (18.58209991455078, 73.9197006225586)

Arrival: MAA (12.990005493164062, 80.16929626464844)

Route Type: Domestic

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