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VLI → SON
Which side of the plane to sit from Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila) to Santo Pekoa International Airport (Santo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a front-row seat to Vanuatu's volcanic heart, including the active craters of Ambrym and the iconic cone of Lopevi.
Lopevi Volcano
A stunning, highly active stratovolcano known for its nearly perfect conical shape rising directly from the sea.
Ambrym Caldera
Look for the massive volcanic plateau containing the Marum and Benbow craters, often emitting plumes of ash.
The Shepherds Islands
A beautiful chain of small islands and submerged reefs between Efate and Epi.
Segond Channel
The final approach into Santo offers views of the historic WWII wrecks and turquoise waters of the channel.
Nguna Island
A clear view of the dormant volcanic peaks and fringing reefs just north of Port Vila.
This is the premier side for photography. You will fly past several active volcanoes, so keep your camera ready midway through the flight. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind the plane, illuminating the vibrant blues of the reefs and the green of the volcanic slopes.
The Coral Sea
Infinite vistas of the deep blue Pacific with occasional sightings of deep-sea fishing vessels.
Western Malekula
Aerial views of the rugged and densely forested western coastline of Vanuatu's second-largest island.
Sunset Horizons
On late afternoon flights, this side provides a perfect view of the sun dipping into the ocean.
Choose this side if you prefer peaceful ocean views and want to avoid the direct morning sun. It is also the better side for capturing the vastness of the Pacific during the cruise phase.
Distance: 271 km (168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Arrival: SON (-15.505000114399998, 167.220001221)
Route Type: Domestic
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