Loading map...
RAB → BUA
Which side of the plane to sit from Tokua Airport (Tokua) to Buka Airport (Buka Island)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a premier view of the active Rabaul caldera upon departure and the stunning, narrow Buka Passage during the approach.
Search flights from RAB to BUA
Mount Tavurvur
An active stratovolcano within the Rabaul caldera, often seen venting steam or ash near Tokua.
Gazelle Peninsula
Lush, dense tropical rainforests and jagged ridges of the East New Britain interior.
Buka Passage
A spectacularly narrow and turquoise water channel separating Buka Island from mainland Bougainville.
Sohano Island
A small, historically significant island located directly in the center of the Buka Passage.
The right side is essential for seeing the Rabaul volcanoes immediately after takeoff. For the best experience, book a morning flight before tropical convection clouds obscure the Gazelle Peninsula's peaks. Keep your camera ready during the final five minutes for the Buka Passage approach.
Book Hotels in Buka Island
St. George's Channel
The deep water strait between New Britain and New Ireland visible shortly after takeoff.
Southern New Ireland
Distant views of the rugged mountain ranges and coastline of New Ireland to the north.
Buka Northern Reefs
Vibrant coral reef systems surrounding the northern tip of Buka Island during the final descent.
Choose the left side for better views of the vast Solomon Sea and the coastline of New Ireland. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, providing clear lighting for photos of the coral reefs near Buka.
Get eSIMs for Papua New Guinea
Get eSIMs for Papua New GuineaDistance: 281 km (175 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: RAB (-4.34045982361, 152.380004883)
Arrival: BUA (-5.422319889068604, 154.67300415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.