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TIH → PPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Tikehau Airport (Tikehau) to Faa'a International Airport (Papeete)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is significantly better for this route as it provides a front-row seat to the iconic silhouette of Moorea during the final descent into Papeete, as well as the best views of Tikehau's turquoise lagoon shortly after takeoff.
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Tikehau Lagoon Interior
Immediate views of the expansive, crystal-clear lagoon which Jacques Cousteau once described as containing the highest concentration of fish in the world.
Tuherahera Village
Get a bird's-eye view of Tikehau's main settlement and its charming airstrip layout just after liftoff.
Moorea Island
The absolute highlight; during the descent into PPT, Moorea's jagged peaks and Cook's Bay appear stunningly across the 'Sea of Moons'.
Papeete Harbor
A view of the bustling capital's waterfront, including the ferry terminal where boats depart for Moorea and other Society Islands.
The right side is essential for the Moorea view, which occurs roughly 5-10 minutes before landing. To avoid the wing obscuring the lagoon views at Tikehau, try to sit at the very front or back of the aircraft (usually an ATR-72 or ATR-42).
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Tikehau Southern Motus
Glimpse the narrow, coconut-palm-fringed islets that make up the southern rim of the atoll as you climb away from TIH.
Mount Orohena
As you approach Tahiti, look for the towering peak of Orohena, the highest point in French Polynesia, dominating the island's lush interior.
Point Venus
On the final approach, the historic lighthouse and black sand beaches of the northernmost point of Tahiti are often visible.
Tuamotu Blue Hole
Witness the dramatic transition from the shallow turquoise waters of the atolls to the deep, midnight blue of the open Pacific Ocean.
Sit on the left for a better view of Tahiti's rugged, cloud-shrouded volcanic mountains. Morning flights are ideal for this side to see the emerald green ridges illuminated by the early sun without heavy shadows or glare.
Get eSIMs for French Polynesia
Get eSIMs for French PolynesiaDistance: 308 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: TIH (-15.119600296020508, -148.2310028076172)
Arrival: PPT (-17.553698999999998, -149.60699499999998)
Route Type: Domestic
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