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VLI → TGH
Which side of the plane to sit from Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila) to Tongoa Airport (Tongoa Island)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an exceptional view of the volcanic topography of Nguna and Pele islands immediately after takeoff, followed by a stunning perspective of the lush Emai Island and the coral fringed coastlines of the Shepherd group.
Havannah Harbour
A deep-water natural harbor on Efate island with crystal clear turquoise waters and historical WWII significance.
Nguna Island
Witness the dramatic extinct volcanic craters of Mount Taputoara rising sharply from the Pacific.
Pele Island
A postcard-perfect tropical island surrounded by vibrant white sand beaches and extensive coral reef systems.
Emai Island
A lush, green island providing a beautiful contrast against the deep sapphire blues of the surrounding ocean.
Shepherd Island Reefs
Aerial views of the intricate shallow reef patterns that connect the smaller islets in this volcanic chain.
For the best photography, choose a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the green volcanic slopes of Nguna and Pele. Small turboprops are used on this route, so ensure you have a window seat away from the wing struts for an unobstructed view of the reef colors.
Efate Highlands
View the rugged, jungle-covered interior mountains of Efate shortly after departing Port Vila.
Mataso Island (The Monument)
A striking, steep-sided volcanic pinnacle known as 'The Monument' that rises dramatically from the sea.
Makura Island
A small, steep-sided volcanic island that marks the center of the ancient Kuwae caldera.
Kuwae Caldera Site
Fly over the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, now an underwater caldera located between Tongoa and Epi.
Tongoa Coastal Cliffs
The dramatic black volcanic cliffs of Tongoa become visible as the aircraft banks for its final approach.
The right side is superior for spotting 'The Monument' (Mataso Island), which is one of the most iconic geographic landmarks in Vanuatu. Keep a lookout for the discolored water near the Kuwae caldera, which can sometimes indicate underwater hydrothermal activity.
Distance: 93 km (58 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 min
Departure: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Arrival: TGH (-16.8910999298, 168.55099487299998)
Route Type: Domestic
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