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PPT → HNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Faa'a International Airport (Papeete) to Daniel K Inouye International Airport (Honolulu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for the iconic departure view of Moorea's jagged peaks and the spectacular approach into Honolulu featuring Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
Search flights from PPT to HNL
Moorea Island
Immediately after takeoff from PPT, enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of Moorea's volcanic spires and turquoise lagoons.
The Doldrums
Witness the dramatic cloud formations and deep blue hues of the Intertropical Convergence Zone near the Equator.
Diamond Head
On arrival into HNL, the left side typically offers a clear view of the iconic tuff cone crater and the Honolulu skyline.
Waikiki Shoreline
Observe the dense high-rises and famous white sands of Waikiki as the plane aligns for the Reef Runway.
Sit on the left for the best 'farewell' view of French Polynesia. During the day, the sun will be mostly behind or above you for the northward flight, reducing glare. For arrival, the left side provides the classic postcard view of Oahu's south shore. Flights are often overnight or long-haul; try to secure a window seat away from the wing for unobstructed photography of Moorea.
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Tetiaroa Atoll
On clear departure days, look for the stunning ring-shaped atoll famously owned by Marlon Brando.
Line Islands
Potential sightings of remote coral atolls like Palmyra or Kingman Reef depending on the specific flight track.
Pearl Harbor
As you descend into Honolulu, the right side often looks down directly onto the USS Arizona Memorial and Ford Island.
HNL Reef Runway
Experience the unique perspective of landing on a runway built entirely on a man-made reef in the Pacific.
The right side is excellent for catching glimpses of the outer atolls of French Polynesia shortly after takeoff. On the approach to Honolulu, while you might miss the skyline, you get a much better view of the naval operations at Pearl Harbor and the intricate details of the airport's unique reef runway layout. Be aware that the afternoon sun may cause significant glare on this side during the middle portion of the flight.
Book Hotels in HonoluluDistance: 4,417 km (2,745 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 12 min
Departure: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Arrival: HNL (21.32062, -157.924228)
Route Type: International
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