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RUN destination photo
NOS destination photo

RUNNOS

Which side of the plane to sit from Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis) to Fascene Airport (Nosy-be)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the dramatic northern coastline of Madagascar and a stunning approach over the turquoise waters and smaller islands surrounding Nosy Be.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Saint-Denis Coast

Clear views of the Reunion capital and the impressive coastal road engineering after takeoff.

📍

Cap d'Ambre

The northernmost tip of Madagascar where the Indian Ocean meets the Mozambique Channel.

🏝️

Nosy Komba

A beautiful volcanic island known for its circular shape and dense forests visible during descent.

🌳

Lokobe Reserve

The last primary forest of Nosy Be, visible on the southeastern tip of the island.

💎

Coral Lagoons

Brilliant turquoise and azure waters surrounding the archipelago during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for the descent into Fascene Airport. You will likely see the northern tip of Madagascar (Cap d'Ambre) and the stunning coral formations around Nosy Komba. Choose a window seat forward of or well behind the wing to capture the vibrant colors of the lagoons during landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌋

Reunion Volcanoes

Distant views of the island's rugged volcanic interior and peaks during climb-out.

🌊

Indian Ocean

Expansive deep blue vistas while crossing the sea between the Mascarene Islands and Madagascar.

🌿

Sava Region Coast

The first sighting of Madagascar's lush, green 'Vanilla Coast' as the plane reaches land.

🏔️

Tsaratanana Massif

Views of the high mountain ranges to the south, including Maromokotro, Madagascar's highest peak.

Sit on the left for early views of Reunion's rugged interior. Morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the heavy afternoon convection clouds that often obscure the Madagascan highlands. Watch for the transition from the deep ocean to the vibrant green of the mainland.

Top Activities in Nosy-be
Route Information

Distance: 1,137 km (706 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min

Departure: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)

Arrival: NOS (-13.3121004105, 48.3148002625)

Route Type: International

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