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SON → ZGU
Which side of the plane to sit from Santo Pekoa International Airport (Santo) to Gaua Island Airport (Gaua Island)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular approach to Gaua, featuring the massive Lake Letas and the active Mount Gharat volcano as you descend into the Banks Islands.
Coral Sea Deep Blue
Expansive views of the deep Pacific trenches between the Sanma and Torba provinces.
Lake Letas
A breathtaking view of the largest freshwater lake in Vanuatu, located in the center of Gaua's caldera.
Mount Gharat
The active volcanic cone protruding from the lake, often seen venting steam or volcanic gases.
Siri Waterfall
If the flight path tracks east, look for the 120-meter drop where the lake overflows toward the sea.
The right side is essential for the iconic 'volcano-within-a-lake' view. Choose a window seat behind the wing for the widest perspective of the Gaua caldera. Flight paths often circle the island clockwise, making the right side the prime spot for photography of the crater.
Espiritu Santo Coastline
Aerial views of the white sands and turquoise waters of Shark Bay and Turtle Bay shortly after takeoff.
Lathu and Thion Islands
Small, lush uninhabited islands surrounded by vibrant coral reef systems north of Santo.
Gaua Western Ridges
The rugged, jungle-clad western slopes of the Gaua volcanic massif as the plane maneuvers for landing.
Sit toward the front to avoid engine heat haze. This side is better for viewing the intricate reef patterns along the northern tip of Espiritu Santo during the first 10 minutes of flight. Morning flights provide excellent soft light on the coastal lagoons.
Distance: 148 km (92 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: SON (-15.505000114399998, 167.220001221)
Arrival: ZGU (-14.218099594099998, 167.587005615)
Route Type: Domestic
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