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SON destination photo
SLH destination photo

SONSLH

Which side of the plane to sit from Santo Pekoa International Airport (Santo) to Sola Airport (Sola)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers an unparalleled view of Gaua Island's dramatic volcanic landscape, including the massive Lake Letas and the active Mount Garet, which are the highlights of this northern route.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏝️

Espiritu Santo Coastline

Aerial views of the white sands and turquoise fringes of the Champagne Coast as you depart north.

🌋

Mount Garet

A stunning view of the active cinder cone located within the Gaua caldera, often venting steam.

💧

Lake Letas

Vanuatu's largest freshwater lake, a massive crescent-shaped body of water surrounding the volcano on Gaua.

🌿

Vanua Lava Rainforests

Lush, untouched tropical canopies covering the rugged mountains of the destination island during descent.

For the best views of Gaua's volcano and lake, book a morning flight to avoid the afternoon cloud buildup common over the peaks. Request a seat in the front or rear to avoid the high-wing shadows of the ATR or Twin Otter aircraft typically used on this route.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏘️

Luganville Harbor

Views of Vanuatu's second-largest town and the historic Segond Channel shipwrecks just after takeoff.

⛰️

Mere Lava Silhouette

The distinct, perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone of Mere Lava visible on the eastern horizon.

🌊

Merig Island

A glimpse of one of the smallest inhabited islands in the archipelago, appearing as a tiny green dot in the Pacific.

⚓

Port Patteson

The sheltered bay of Sola visible as the aircraft banks for its final approach into Sola Airport.

The right side is ideal for spotting distant volcanic islands like Mere Lava. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best views of the coral reefs surrounding the smaller islands near Luganville. Early morning light from the east provides excellent contrast for island photography.

Top Activities in Sola
Route Information

Distance: 187 km (116 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 19 min

Departure: SON (-15.505000114399998, 167.220001221)

Arrival: SLH (-13.8516998291, 167.537002563)

Route Type: Domestic

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