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RGI → TIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Rangiroa Airport (Rangiroa) to Tikehau Airport (Tikehau)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of Rangiroa's famous northern passes and the breathtaking approach into the circular paradise of Tikehau.
Avatoru Pass
Witness the powerful currents and vibrant blues where the ocean surges into the lagoon shortly after takeoff.
Tikehau Ring
The northern edge of the atoll appears as a delicate necklace of white sand and palms from your window.
Bird Island
A dense green sanctuary located within the Tikehau lagoon, home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Tuheiava Pass
The only navigable entrance to Tikehau, located on the western reef, visible just before touchdown.
The highlight is the Avatoru Pass shortly after takeoff from RGI. During the approach to TIH, look for 'Bird Island' (Motu Puarua) sitting solitary in the lagoon. Mid-morning flights between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM provide the best color saturation for the water without heavy sun reflection.
The Blue Lagoon
A stunning, shallow natural pool of crystal water located on the western fringes of the Rangiroa atoll.
Rangiroa Rim
The southern coral wall stretching toward the horizon, separating the inner lagoon from the deep South Pacific.
Tuherahera Village
The main settlement of Tikehau with its charming docks and colorful houses visible during the final descent.
Coral Gardens
Vast underwater coral structures visible through the shallow, translucent lagoon water near the shore.
Focus on the vastness of the Rangiroa lagoon immediately after takeoff. As you approach Tikehau, watch for the shift from deep navy ocean to vibrant neon turquoise near the reef. This side is often better for capturing the contrast between the inhabited areas and the wild ocean.
Distance: 64 km (40 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 min
Departure: RGI (-14.954299926757812, -147.66099548339844)
Arrival: TIH (-15.119600296020508, -148.2310028076172)
Route Type: Domestic
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