Loading map...

RTA destination photo
NAN destination photo

RTANAN

Which side of the plane to sit from Rotuma Airport (Rotuma) to Nadi International Airport (Nandi)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Yasawa and Mamanuca island chains during the descent into Nadi. While both sides offer views of the turquoise waters surrounding Rotuma, the starboard side consistently provides the most iconic Fijian island scenery and better lighting conditions for morning flights.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌋

Mount Juju

The lush volcanic peaks in the center of Rotuma Island immediately after departing RTA.

🏝️

Yasawa Archipelago

A stunning chain of high volcanic islands with pristine white sand beaches and hidden lagoons.

🐚

Vomo Island

A luxury private island featuring a massive surrounding coral reef and turquoise shallows.

🐠

Mamanuca Islands

Views of iconic sand cays and reefs, including those featured in the film Cast Away.

⛵

Denarau Marina

The major resort hub and yacht harbor visible just moments before touchdown at NAN.

The right side is the definitive choice for scenery on this route. Most flights from Rotuma operate in the morning, meaning the sun will be behind you or to the left, providing perfectly lit views of the Yasawa reefs. Try to secure a window seat away from the wing to fully capture the transition from deep ocean to coral shallows.

Left Side Highlights
6.2
⚓

Oinafa Harbor

View of the main wharf and the picturesque eastern coastline of Rotuma shortly after takeoff.

🌊

The Koro Sea

A vast expanse of deep blue ocean as the flight crosses the open water towards the main Fiji group.

🏔️

Nakauvadra Range

The rugged mountains of northern Viti Levu, steeped in Fijian mythology, visible during the final approach.

🚜

Ba Sugar Cane Fields

The sprawling green landscapes of the sugar cane industry surrounding the town of Ba.

🏭

Lautoka City

A bird's-eye view of Fiji's second-largest city, known as the Sugar City, and its industrial port.

The left side is ideal if you prefer views of Viti Levu's mountainous interior. Be aware that during morning flights, the sun is positioned on this side of the aircraft, which can cause significant glare and make photography difficult. Look for the peak of Mount Tomanivi in the distance if the clouds are high.

Top Activities in Nandi
Route Information

Distance: 588 km (365 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 59 min

Departure: RTA (-12.482500076293944, 177.0709991455078)

Arrival: NAN (-17.755399703979492, 177.4429931640625)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.