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SBH → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Gustaf III Airport (Gustavia) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, starting with a dramatic climb over Baie de Saint-Jean and concluding with the world-famous low-altitude approach over Maho Beach at SXM.
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Baie de Saint-Jean
Immediate views of the turquoise bay and Eden Rock hotel as the plane clears the hilltop runway.
Île Chevreau
Flight path passes near these uninhabited, rocky islets that dot the northern waters of St. Barth.
Anguilla Silhouette
On clear days, the long, flat profile of the island of Anguilla is visible across the channel to the north.
Maho Beach
The legendary experience of flying mere meters above tourists and the shoreline just seconds before touchdown.
The right side is the 'photographer's choice' for the iconic SXM landing experience over Maho Beach. Because the flight is extremely short (10-15 minutes), have your camera ready before the engines start. Polarized sunglasses will help you see the vibrant reef structures through the water's surface.
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Gustavia Harbor
Aerial view of the luxury yachts and iconic red-roofed buildings of the capital shortly after takeoff.
St. Barth South Coast
The rugged coastline and secluded white sand beaches of Anse de Grande Saline and Gouverneur.
Philipsburg & Great Bay
A clear view of the Dutch side's capital and the large cruise ship terminal during the descent.
Little Bay
Stunning turquoise waters and the historical Fort Amsterdam guarding the entrance to the bay.
Sit on the left for the best view of Gustavia's yacht-filled harbor immediately after the steep takeoff. For the best photography of the Dutch side coastline, choose a mid-day flight when the sun is directly overhead to illuminate the reef colors.
Get eSIMs for France
Get eSIMs for Netherlands AntillesDistance: 32 km (20 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 min
Departure: SBH (17.904399871826172, -62.84360122680664)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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