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SSR → SON
Which side of the plane to sit from Sara Airport (Pentecost Island) to Santo Pekoa International Airport (Santo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for viewing the towering volcanic peaks of Ambae Island and the picturesque islands surrounding the approach into Luganville.
Ambae Island Vistas
Uninterrupted views of Mount Manaro, the active shield volcano on the neighboring island of Ambae, rising out of the sea.
Aore Island
As the plane descends into Santo, you will see the lush tropical plantations and white sand fringes of Aore Island.
Segond Channel
A clear view of the deep water channel separating Santo from Aore Island, often dotted with small boats and dive vessels.
Luganville Town
The second-largest town in Vanuatu comes into view just before touchdown at Pekoa, showcasing the coastal urban layout.
Request a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare from the northern sun. This side is the most consistent for viewing the dramatic volcanic activity on Ambae if the flight path tracks slightly south of the direct line.
Pentecost Strait
Watch the deep azure waters of the strait as you transition from the rugged coast of Pentecost toward the open sea.
Maewo Island Horizon
On clear days, the long, thin silhouette of Maewo Island is visible to the north, known for its high rainfall and waterfalls.
Palikulo Bay
The distinctive horseshoe shape of Palikulo Bay on the eastern tip of Santo offers stunning turquoise water gradients.
Pekoa Approach
Views of the sprawling coconut plantations that surround the airport perimeter during the final banking maneuvers.
The right side is excellent for photography of the Coral Sea's vastness. If the wind requires a northern approach, you may get a brief glimpse of the famous Million Dollar Point from this side, where WWII equipment was dumped.
Distance: 100 km (62 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 min
Departure: SSR (-15.4708003998, 168.15199279799998)
Arrival: SON (-15.505000114399998, 167.220001221)
Route Type: Domestic
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