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UVEGEA

Which side of the plane to sit from Ouvéa Airport (Ouvea) to Nouméa Magenta Airport (Noumea)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers unparalleled views of the UNESCO-listed Ouvéa lagoon during takeoff and provides a superior perspective of the turquoise coral reefs and the vibrant coastline of Nouméa upon arrival.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

Ouvéa Turquoise Lagoon

Breathtaking views of the shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ouvéa lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

🌉

Mouly Bridge

A famous landmark connecting Ouvéa and Mouly island, visible just after takeoff if the flight path tracks south-southeast.

⛰️

Chaîne Centrale Peaks

The rugged, lush mountain range of Grande Terre dominates the horizon as you approach the main island.

🐠

Great Barrier Reef

Extensive views of the world's second-largest coral reef system stretching along the coast of the main island.

🏙️

Anse Vata & Baie des Citrons

The popular beaches and hotel districts of Nouméa are beautifully framed during the final descent into Magenta.

Sit on the left for the most vibrant lagoon colors. Morning flights are ideal as the sun is behind the aircraft, illuminating the water's clarity. Watch for the sudden transition from deep ocean blue to neon turquoise as you cross the reef edge.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🏖️

Fayaoué Beach

The longest white sand beach in New Caledonia, stretching for over 25 kilometers along the Ouvéa coast.

🐦

The Pleiades Islets

A chain of uninhabited, pristine coral islets bordering the western edge of the Ouvéa atoll.

☁️

Mount Humboldt

In clear weather, the peaks of the south, including Mount Humboldt, are visible as you transit towards Nouméa.

🏞️

Dumbéa River Valley

Lush green river basins and forest canopy visible during the descent into the Nouméa basin.

⚓

Nouméa Industrial Port

A bird's-eye view of the nickel processing plants and the busy commercial harbor before landing.

Choose the right side if you want to see the uninhabited islets of the atoll during departure. This side is often better for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun over the Coral Sea.

Top Activities in Noumea
Route Information

Distance: 180 km (112 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: UVE (-20.640600204467773, 166.572998046875)

Arrival: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)

Route Type: Domestic

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