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SMS β RUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sainte Marie Airport (Sainte Marie) to Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Madagascar mainland during departure and provides a breathtaking panorama of Reunion Island's volcanic peaks and rugged 'Cirques' during the descent into Saint-Denis.
Madagascar Mainland
Dramatic views across the channel toward the lush, forested coastline of the main island of Madagascar.
Γle aux Nattes
A bird's-eye view of the small, car-free paradise island located just south of Sainte Marie.
Piton des Neiges
View the highest peak in the Indian Ocean rising above the clouds as you approach Reunion.
The Cirques
Glimpse into the deep, inaccessible volcanic calderas of Mafate and Salazie during the descent.
RUN Approach
Dramatic approach over the mountain ridges before touching down at Roland Garros Airport.
This is the premier side for this route. On departure, you see the narrow channel separating Sainte Marie from the mainland. On arrival at RUN, the right side faces the island's interior, offering spectacular views of the volcanic mountains. Since clouds often build up over Reunion's peaks by midday, try to book the earliest morning flight possible for clear visibility.
Sainte Marie Lagoon
Aerial view of the turquoise coral reefs and shallow waters surrounding the southern tip of the island.
Whale Migration Path
During winter months (July-Sept), watch the ocean surface for breaches from humpback whales in the channel.
Indian Ocean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue expanse as the flight crosses the Madagascar Basin.
Saint-Denis Coastline
A close-up view of the capital's urban layout and the 'Nouvelle Route du Littoral' coastal viaduct.
Choose this side if you prefer the vastness of the ocean and want a clear view of the Sainte Marie lagoon immediately after takeoff. For the arrival in Reunion, you will see the coastline and the famous coastal road built over the sea. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the turquoise waters near Madagascar.
Distance: 732 km (455 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 13 min
Departure: SMS (-17.093900680541992, 49.81579971313477)
Arrival: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)
Route Type: International
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