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PPG destination photo
HNL destination photo

PPGHNL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer stunning volcanic views upon departure from American Samoa, the Right Side is preferred for the iconic arrival sequence into Honolulu, featuring Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Manu'a Islands

Distant views of Ta'u and Ofu-Olosega islands to the east shortly after departure.

💎

Diamond Head

The world-famous volcanic tuff cone landmark visible as the plane banks toward the runway.

🏖️

Waikiki Skyline

The dense high-rises and golden sands of Hawaii's most famous beach strip.

🛶

Keehi Lagoon

The turquoise waters and reef runways surrounding Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

🏙️

Downtown Honolulu

A close-up view of the Aloha Tower and the commercial heart of the Hawaiian islands.

This is the premier side for the approach into Oahu. Most flights from PPG arrive in the evening; if arriving before sunset, the golden hour light hitting Diamond Head is spectacular. If arriving at night, the city lights of Honolulu and the Waikiki strip provide a vibrant welcome.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌋

Tutuila Interior

Lush, rugged volcanic peaks and the steep ridges of the National Park of American Samoa.

🚢

Pago Pago Harbor

A view of one of the deepest and most dramatic natural harbors in the South Pacific.

⚓

Pearl Harbor

Clear views of the historic naval base and the USS Arizona Memorial during the final descent.

🌊

ITCZ Cloud Formations

Dramatic towering cumulus clouds as the flight crosses the Intertropical Convergence Zone near the equator.

Sit on the left for the best views of the jagged American Samoan coastline during takeoff. For arrival in Honolulu, this side provides a functional view of the airport's industrial areas and Pearl Harbor, but lacks the iconic skyline views. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Samoan peaks.

Top Activities in Honolulu
Route Information

Distance: 4,203 km (2,612 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 57 min

Departure: PPG (-14.3310003281, -170.710006714)

Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)

Route Type: International

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