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SJU → SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (San Juan) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular front-row seat to the island-hopping experience, featuring the lush peaks of El Yunque, the Spanish Virgin Islands, and the entire chain of the US and British Virgin Islands.
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El Yunque Rainforest
The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System visible as a lush, dark green canopy against the coast.
Spanish Virgin Islands
Clear views of Vieques and Culebra, known for Flamenco Beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
US Virgin Islands
Detailed views of the mountainous terrain of St. Thomas and the protected bays of St. John.
British Virgin Islands
Panoramic views of Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and the distinctive rock formations of Virgin Gorda.
Maho Beach Approach
The world-famous low-altitude approach over Maho Beach and the turquoise waters of Simpson Bay.
The right side is essential for photographers. Keep your camera ready within 10 minutes of takeoff to catch the Virgin Islands. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the shallow reefs and turquoise lagoons. Opt for a seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the island chain.
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Old San Juan
Aerial view of the historic El Morro fort and the colorful colonial buildings of the old city upon takeoff.
Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean and the northern coastline of Puerto Rico.
Anguilla
The low-lying coral island of Anguilla often appears on the left as the plane maneuvers for the SXM approach.
Grand Case
Views of the northern, French side of St. Martin including the smaller Espérance Airport as you descend.
Sit on the left for the best views of the San Juan coastline during departure. If you are flying in the late afternoon, this side is better for avoiding the direct glare of the southern sun, making it easier to take photos of the Atlantic coastline.
Get eSIMs for Puerto Rico
Get eSIMs for Netherlands AntillesDistance: 309 km (192 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: SJU (18.4393997192, -66.0018005371)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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