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RAR → PPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Rarotonga International Airport (Avarua) to Faa'a International Airport (Papeete)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled panorama of the Society Islands. As you fly eastward from Rarotonga, you pass directly by the most iconic atolls and volcanic islands in the South Pacific, including Bora Bora and Moorea, before arriving in Tahiti.
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Rarotonga Departure
Exquisite views of the Muri Lagoon and the surrounding reef as the aircraft climbs away from the island.
Aitutaki Atoll
On clear days, the breathtaking turquoise lagoon and white sand cays of Aitutaki are visible to the north.
Maupiti
The westernmost high island of the Society group, resembling a miniature Bora Bora with its central peak.
Bora Bora
An iconic view of Mount Otemanu rising from the world's most famous multi-hued turquoise lagoon.
Taha'a and Raiatea
The 'Sister Islands' sharing a single massive coral reef system, visible in stunning detail from cruising altitude.
Huahine
Known as the 'Garden Island,' its lush green slopes and deep bays provide a vibrant contrast to the blue ocean.
Moorea
Dramatic jagged peaks and the famous Opunohu and Cook's Bays come into view just before the final descent.
PPT Arrival
A sweeping view of the Papeete coastline and the northern reefs of Tahiti Nui during the approach.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing on the left side (Seat A) for unobstructed views of the Society Islands chain. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for photography, as the sun will be behind or above the aircraft, illuminating the lagoons. Watch closely about 45-60 minutes into the flight for the first sight of the French Polynesian islands.
Get eSIMs for Cook Islands
Get eSIMs for French Polynesia
Rarotonga Interior
Views of the rugged volcanic interior of Rarotonga, including the 'Needle' and Te Manga peak.
Pacific Blue
The mesmerizing transition of ocean colors from deep indigo to bright cyan as the seafloor depth changes.
Maiao Island
The isolated 'Forbidden Island' of the Society group, visible as a small emerald speck in the vast ocean.
Tahiti Nui South
A perspective of the wilder, less developed southern coast of Tahiti with its steep cliffs and waterfalls.
Tahiti Iti
The smaller peninsula of Tahiti, known for its rugged terrain and the world-famous Teahupo'o surf break.
The right side (Seat F or K) is generally quieter visually but offers a more peaceful view of the open Pacific. It is the better side for sunrise views on early morning departures, as the sun rises over the horizon ahead. During landing at PPT, this side occasionally gets a view of the southern mountains of Tahiti if the flight path approaches from the south.
Book Hotels in PapeeteDistance: 1,144 km (711 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: RAR (-21.2026996613, -159.805999756)
Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Route Type: International
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