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SKB โ SXM
Which side of the plane to sit from Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (Basse Terre) to Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the iconic volcanic islands of the Leeward chain, including Sint Eustatius and Saba, and a clear view of the lagoon upon arrival.
The Quill
A striking dormant volcano on Sint Eustatius with a lush, forested crater clearly visible from the air.
Saba Island
The dramatic, cloud-shrouded peak of Mount Scenery rising steeply from the Caribbean Sea.
Coral Reefs
Vibrant turquoise patches of shallow coral reefs surrounding the smaller cays between islands.
Simpson Bay Lagoon
The vast protected waters of the lagoon filled with mega-yachts as you descend into SXM.
This is one of the world's most scenic short-haul flights. Choose the left side for the best volcanic vistas. Since the flight duration is under 30 minutes, you will remain at a relatively low altitude, perfect for photography. Avoid mid-afternoon flights if you want to minimize sun glare on this side, as the plane heads northwest.
Brimstone Hill Fortress
A massive 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage site perched on the coast of St. Kitts.
Saint Barthรฉlemy
The glitzy neighboring island of St. Barts is visible on the eastern horizon during mid-flight.
Maho Beach
The legendary beach at the end of the SXM runway where tourists gather to watch planes land.
Philipsburg
The capital of Dutch Sint Maarten, featuring the Great Bay and the cruise ship terminal.
The right side is superior for viewing the coastline of St. Kitts immediately after departure. It also provides a great angle for seeing the cruise ships docked in Philipsburg. For the best lighting, an early morning flight is recommended to have the sun behind the aircraft while looking toward the islands.
Distance: 91 km (57 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 min
Departure: SKB (17.311199188232422, -62.71870040893555)
Arrival: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Route Type: International
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