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SXM → SDQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Princess Juliana International Airport (Philipsburg) to Las Américas International Airport (Santo Domingo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the sprawling northern coastline of Puerto Rico, including the lush El Yunque rainforest and the historic fortifications of Old San Juan, followed by a dramatic approach into Santo Domingo.
Anguilla Shoreline
Aerial views of the long, thin island of Anguilla and its surrounding coral reefs shortly after takeoff.
El Yunque National Forest
The dense, misty green peaks of the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
Old San Juan
A spectacular view of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the colorful colonial buildings of Puerto Rico's capital.
Puerto Rico Trench
The deep turquoise transition of the Atlantic Ocean where it meets the northern shelf of the Antilles.
Santo Domingo Coastline
The approach provides a panoramic view of the Dominican capital's modern skyline and the Malecon waterfront.
Sit on the left side to maximize views of Puerto Rico's landmarks. Morning flights are best as the sun remains to the south, perfectly illuminating the northern coastline and San Juan's architecture without glare.
Mount Scenery
The distinct volcanic silhouette of Saba, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, visible to the south.
Spanish Virgin Islands
The islands of Culebra and Vieques surrounded by bright turquoise shallows and bioluminescent bays.
Saona Island
A view of the large, protected island off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic during the descent.
Boca Chica Lagoon
The shallow, crystal-clear reef-protected waters near the airport as the plane aligns for its final landing.
The right side is excellent for spotting the volcanic islands of the Lesser Antilles early in the flight. In the late afternoon, this side offers stunning sunset views over the Caribbean Sea as you reach the Dominican Republic.
Distance: 694 km (431 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min
Departure: SXM (18.0410003662, -63.1088981628)
Arrival: SDQ (18.42970085144, -69.668899536133)
Route Type: International
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