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TMM destination photo
TNR destination photo

TMMTNR

Which side of the plane to sit from Toamasina Airport (Toamasina) to Ivato Airport (Antananarivo)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the industrial highlights of Toamasina's port during departure and a more dramatic panoramic view of the rolling Central Highlands and the capital city's sprawling suburbs upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🚢

Port of Toamasina

A clear view of Madagascar's largest commercial port and the bustling container terminals right after takeoff.

🏝️

Île aux Prunes

The small island with its iconic lighthouse visible in the turquoise waters off the coast of Toamasina.

🏞️

Mangoro River

The winding path of the Mangoro River cutting through the dense vegetation and hilly terrain below.

⛰️

Angavokely Massif

Distinctive granite domes and rock formations that signal the approach to the capital's high-altitude basin.

🏙️

Antananarivo Skyline

The sprawling density of the capital city built across twelve sacred hills, visible during the final descent into Ivato.

The right side is ideal for capturing the scale of the Toamasina coastline and the urban density of Antananarivo. On the approach to TNR, look for the 'Rova' (Queen's Palace) sitting atop the highest hill in the distance. Late afternoon flights provide beautiful golden-hour lighting on the red clay earth of the highlands.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Pangalanes Canal

A glimpse of the historic man-made waterway that runs parallel to the Indian Ocean, dotted with small fishing pirogues.

🌳

Rainforest Corridor

Lush tropical canopies covering the steep eastern slopes as the plane climbs toward the interior plateau.

🌾

Highland Rice Paddies

Geometric patterns of vibrant green rice terraces carved into the valleys, a staple of the Malagasy landscape.

🏠

Merina Architecture

Traditional red-brick houses with high-pitched roofs nestled among the clay-colored hills of the Imerina region.

⛰️

Eastern Escarpment

The dramatic transition zone where the coastal plains abruptly meet the high altitude of the central interior.

Sit on this side for the best lighting during early morning flights, as the sun will be behind you. Keep an eye out for the Pangalanes Canal immediately after takeoff. During the wet season (December–March), this side offers stunning views of temporary waterfalls cascading down the eastern cliffs.

Top Activities in Antananarivo
Route Information

Distance: 216 km (134 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 22 min

Departure: TMM (-18.10950088500977, 49.39250183105469)

Arrival: TNR (-18.7969, 47.478802)

Route Type: Domestic

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