Loading map...
RFP â BOB
Which side of the plane to sit from Raiatea Airport (Raiatea Island) to Bora Bora Airport (Bora Bora)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the iconic, world-class view of Mount Otemanu and the vibrant Bora Bora lagoon during the descent into one of the world's most scenic airports.
Mount Otemanu
The jagged volcanic peak of Bora Bora dominates the view on the final approach into the airport.
Turquoise Lagoons
Incredible gradients of electric blue and cyan as the plane crosses the reef between Taha'a and Bora Bora.
Matira Point
The southern tip of Bora Bora featuring world-renowned white sand beaches and shallow sandbars.
Overwater Bungalows
Perfect aerial views of the luxury resorts and their famous bungalow piers extending into the lagoon.
For the best unobstructed views, try to sit in the front or rear of the cabin to stay clear of the wing. On this very short 15-minute hop, the left side is the 'money side' because the standard approach path typically banks to show the main island of Bora Bora. Mid-morning flights are ideal as the sun is high enough to illuminate the lagoon colors but not yet directly overhead to cause cabin glare.
Taha'a Motus
View of the small coral islets scattered along the eastern edge of the reef shared with Raiatea.
The Great Barrier Reef
The dramatic visual contrast where the white surf of the Pacific crashes against the protective coral reef.
Raiatea Interior
A quick look at the lush, green mountainous heart of Raiatea immediately following takeoff.
Motu Mute Landing
A close-up view of the narrow coral strip and the surrounding reef as the plane touches down at BOB.
The right side is excellent for observing the structural complexity of the outer reef and the deep ocean drop-offs. If the weather is exceptionally clear, look far to the east shortly after takeoff to spot the silhouette of Huahine. This side is generally quieter for photography as most passengers crowd the left side for the mountain view.
Distance: 43 km (27 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 min
Departure: RFP (-16.7229, -151.466003)
Arrival: BOB (-16.444400787353516, -151.75100708007812)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.