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SBH → SFG
Which side of the plane to sit from Gustaf III Airport (Gustavia) to L'Espérance Airport (St. Martin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an exceptional view of the St. Barts coastline immediately after takeoff and a full panorama of St. Martin's lush mountainous interior and Orient Bay during the descent.
Baie de Saint Jean
Direct views of the famous beach and turquoise lagoon surrounding the Gustaf III runway after takeoff.
Île Fourchue
A rugged, horseshoe-shaped uninhabited island located halfway between St. Barts and St. Martin.
Orient Bay
Clear views of the long white-sand beach and the upscale resorts of St. Martin's eastern coast.
Pic Paradis
The highest peak on St. Martin, offering a lush green backdrop as the plane enters the final approach path.
Grand Case Village
The colorful rooftops and waterfront restaurants of the French side's culinary capital.
Sit on the left for the morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. Keep your camera ready from the moment the engine revs, as the takeoff over the 'Col de la Tourmente' hill and the immediate view of the bay happens in seconds. This side is superior for seeing the main landmass of St. Martin.
Canal de Saint-Barthélemy
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic waters and the crossing between the two islands.
Tintamarre Island
A flat, remote island with striking red cliffs and white sand beaches, prominent on the starboard side.
Pinel Island
A small, vibrant islet popular with day-trippers, visible just before the final descent into SFG.
Grand Case Bay
The sparkling waters of the bay and the salt pond just adjacent to the airport perimeter.
The right side is ideal for spotting marine life in the shallow reefs around Tintamarre. In the late afternoon, this side receives beautiful golden hour light on the islands. It offers a more 'oceanic' feel compared to the land-heavy views of the left side.
Distance: 31 km (19 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 min
Departure: SBH (17.904399871826172, -62.84360122680664)
Arrival: SFG (18.099899291992, -63.047199249268)
Route Type: International
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