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VAO → HIR
Which side of the plane to sit from Suavanao Airport (Suavanao) to Honiara International Airport (Honiara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the iconic Savo Island volcano, the historic Ironbottom Sound, and the dramatic approach along the northern coastline of Guadalcanal.
Search flights from VAO to HIR
Kia District Waterways
A breathtaking maze of mangrove channels and tiny forested islets near the southern tip of Santa Isabel.
Savo Island
A perfectly shaped volcanic cone rising from the sea, famous for its megapode birds and geothermal activity.
Ironbottom Sound
The site of intense WWII naval battles; the waters between the Florida Islands and Guadalcanal hide dozens of wrecks.
Florida Islands (Nggela)
Views of the Tulagi area, the former colonial capital, nestled within the Nggela island group.
Guadalcanal Peaks
The massive, cloud-shrouded mountain range of the main island, including Mount Popomanaseu.
For the best experience, sit on the right to see Savo Island and the historic Ironbottom Sound. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting on the Guadalcanal mountains. As you approach Honiara, look for the distinct color changes in the water that indicate submerged reefs and historic wreckage sites near the shore.
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Santa Isabel Reefs
Extensive coral reef systems and turquoise lagoons immediately following takeoff from Suavanao.
Indispensable Strait
A deep-water channel separating the central and eastern islands of the Solomon archipelago.
Malaita Silhouette
On clear days, the rugged, mountainous profile of Malaita Island is visible on the eastern horizon.
Lunga Plains
The fertile agricultural lands and palm plantations east of Honiara visible during the final descent.
The left side is ideal for spotting the vibrant transition from shallow reefs to the deep blue of the Indispensable Strait. Morning flights are preferred to avoid the afternoon sun glare over the water. Watch for the sudden appearance of the Guadalcanal coastline as the plane descends toward Henderson Field.
Get eSIMs for Solomon Islands
Get eSIMs for Solomon IslandsDistance: 251 km (156 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: VAO (-7.585559844970702, 158.7310028076172)
Arrival: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)
Route Type: Domestic
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