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SLC → KOA
Which side of the plane to sit from Salt Lake City International Airport (Salt Lake City) to Ellison Onizuka Kona International At Keahole Airport (Kona)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is the clear winner for this route, providing spectacular views of the Great Salt Lake's unique colors, the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada, and a breathtaking aerial tour of the Hawaiian island chain including Maui and Mauna Kea before landing.
Great Salt Lake Flats
Incredible views of the northern arm's pink and turquoise mineral waters right after takeoff.
Sierra Nevada Range
The majestic, often snow-capped peaks of the California mountains, including the Yosemite region.
California Coastline
A final look at the rugged Pacific coast near San Francisco or the Central Coast before crossing the ocean.
Hawaiian Islands
Early sightings of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai as the flight begins its descent into the Big Island.
Mauna Kea
Unmatched views of the massive volcano and its summit observatories as the plane nears Kona.
The right side is ideal as it stays in the shade during westbound morning and afternoon flights. It offers the best perspective of the Great Salt Lake's color variations and the most scenic approach to KOA, where you can see the other Hawaiian islands and the volcanic peaks of the Big Island clearly.
Antelope Island
A close-up look at the largest island in the Great Salt Lake shortly after departing Salt Lake City.
Mojave Desert
Sweeping views of the arid landscapes, mountain ranges, and dry lakes of the American Southwest.
Southern California
Occasional views of the Los Angeles or San Diego metropolitan areas depending on the specific air corridor.
Pacific Horizon
The vast, uninterrupted expanse of the Pacific Ocean as the flight heads toward the Hawaiian Islands.
South Kona Coast
The rugged lava fields and southern coastline of the Big Island during the final approach sequence.
Sit on the left for better views of the Mojave Desert and the southern flank of the Big Island. Be aware that on morning departures, the sun will be on this side for the first half of the flight, so keep your window shade adjusted to avoid glare. Polarized sunglasses are recommended for the ocean portion.
Distance: 4,769 km (2,963 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 37 min
Departure: SLC (40.78839874267578, -111.97799682617188)
Arrival: KOA (19.738783, -156.045603)
Route Type: Domestic
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