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SXM → CUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg) to Hato International Airport (Willemstad)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is significantly more scenic as it tracks the volcanic chain of the Leeward Islands and provides a glimpse of Bonaire and Klein Curacao before the final approach.
Search flights from SXM to CUR
Saba & Mount Scenery
The dramatic, steep-sided volcanic island of Saba and its lush peak, which is the highest point in the Netherlands.
St. Eustatius (Statia)
A clear view of 'The Quill', a perfectly formed dormant volcanic crater at the southern end of the island.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Vistas of Mount Liamuiga and the lush, green slopes stretching down to the Caribbean Sea.
Klein Curacao
A tiny, sun-bleached desert island located off the coast of Curacao, famous for its lighthouse and shipwrecks.
Bonaire's Salt Pans
Distant but visible bright pink salt evaporation ponds and white salt pyramids on the southern tip of Bonaire.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat distortion when photographing the islands. This side is best during morning flights (before 10:00 AM) to have the sun behind you, illuminating the volcanic peaks of Saba and Statia perfectly. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the Leeward Islands appear in quick succession.
Get eSIMs for Netherlands Antilles
Get eSIMs for Netherlands Antilles
Departure SXM
Aerial views of Simpson Bay Lagoon and the western coastline of St. Martin immediately after takeoff.
Caribbean Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Caribbean Sea, often dotted with whitecaps and occasional cargo vessels.
Curacao North Coast
The rugged, limestone cliffs of Curacao's windward side where the sea crashes violently against the shore.
Bullenbaai Terminal
The massive oil storage facilities and piers that mark the industrial landscape of Curacao's western coast.
The Right Side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the water. While less island-heavy, it offers a great perspective of Curacao's wild northern coastline during the descent into Hato International. Look out for the distinct contrast between the deep ocean blue and the turquoise shallows near the Curacao shore.
Book Hotels in WillemstadDistance: 904 km (562 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Arrival: CUR (12.1889, -68.959801)
Route Type: Domestic
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