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POM → BUA
Which side of the plane to sit from Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby) to Buka Airport (Buka Island)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the volcanic backbone of Bougainville Island, including active volcanoes like Mount Bagana, and the breathtaking D'Entrecasteaux island chain shortly after departure.
D'Entrecasteaux Islands
A stunning view of Normanby, Fergusson, and Goodenough Islands, known for their steep mountains rising directly from the sea.
Mount Bagana
One of the most active volcanoes in Papua New Guinea; look for the distinct volcanic cone often emitting a plume of steam or ash.
Emperor Range
The high mountain peaks of northern Bougainville, including the massive caldera of Mount Balbi.
Empress Augusta Bay
A large, scenic bay on the west coast of Bougainville with historical significance from WWII.
Buka Waterfront
Detailed views of the small boats and vibrant reef systems surrounding Buka Town just before touchdown.
The right side is the 'volcano side.' Keep your camera ready about 45-60 minutes into the flight to catch the volcanic activity on Bougainville. Early morning flights provide the clearest air for spotting the distant volcanic plumes of Mount Bagana.
Owen Stanley Range
Dramatic views of the rugged mountain spine of mainland Papua New Guinea immediately after takeoff from Port Moresby.
Solomon Sea
Expansive views of the deep blue Solomon Sea, often featuring distinct color changes over deep ocean trenches.
Trobriand Islands
Distance views of the 'Islands of Love,' appearing as low-lying coral atolls surrounded by turquoise reefs.
Buka Passage
The narrow, swirling channel of water that separates Buka Island from the northern tip of Bougainville during the final approach.
Sit on the left if you want to see the mainland mountains early in the flight. Morning flights are best as clouds often build up over the Owen Stanley Range by midday, obscuring the peaks.
Distance: 935 km (581 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Arrival: BUA (-5.422319889068604, 154.67300415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
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