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SMS β TMM
Which side of the plane to sit from Sainte Marie Airport (Sainte Marie) to Toamasina Airport (Toamasina)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers continuous views of the lush Madagascar coastline, the intricate Canal des Pangalanes, and the stunning departure vistas of Γle Sainte-Marie.
Sainte Marie Coastline
Crystal clear turquoise lagoons and white sand beaches of the southern part of the island during departure.
Mainland Madagascar
The dense tropical vegetation and hills of the Analanjirofo region as the flight crosses the channel.
Canal des Pangalanes
The historic man-made and natural waterway that runs perfectly parallel to the ocean coastline for miles.
Toamasina Cityscape
Detailed views of the city's colonial architecture and bustling streets as the plane descends into TMM.
Port of Toamasina
A bird's-eye view of the massive container terminals and docks that drive the nation's economy.
The right side (F seats) is the clear winner for this short hop. You will have a front-row seat to the Pangalanes Canal, which is easily identifiable as a long silver ribbon of water nestled behind the primary dunes. Try to book a flight between 8 AM and 11 AM for the most vibrant colors in the lagoons before the afternoon clouds typically form over the mainland.
Whale Migration Route
The channel between the island and the mainland is a prime spot for spotting Humpback whales during winter months.
Γle aux Nattes
Brief views of the tiny, car-free paradise island at the southern tip of Sainte Marie during takeoff.
Indian Ocean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Indian Ocean as the aircraft heads south-southwest toward Toamasina.
Toamasina Outer Anchorage
Cargo ships waiting to enter Madagascar's busiest port can often be seen dotting the horizon on approach.
While mostly ocean-facing, the left side is superior for whale watching between July and September. Morning flights avoid the sun's glare on this side. If the aircraft performs a water approach into TMM, you may see the coral reefs near the harbor.
Distance: 122 km (76 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 min
Departure: SMS (-17.093900680541992, 49.81579971313477)
Arrival: TMM (-18.10950088500977, 49.39250183105469)
Route Type: Domestic
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