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XCH → CCK
Which side of the plane to sit from Christmas Island Airport (Christmas Island) to Cocos (Keeling) Islands Airport (Cocos Keeling Island)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side provides a superior perspective of the iconic turquoise lagoon and the interior islands of the Cocos (Keeling) atoll during the descent, along with the main settlement of Christmas Island upon departure.
Flying Fish Cove
Aerial view of Christmas Island's main settlement and the colorful containers at the port during takeoff.
Cocos Lagoon
Breathtaking shades of neon turquoise and azure as the plane enters the interior of the coral atoll.
Direction Island
A clear view of the famously pristine white-sand beach and the legendary 'Rip' snorkeling area.
Home Island
Look down at the Cocos Malay community's village, characterized by its neat grid of houses and palm-lined streets.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the most dramatic entry into the Cocos atoll. The contrast between the deep indigo of the Indian Ocean and the sudden turquoise of the lagoon is best captured here. For photography, ensure your shutter speed is high to capture the coral details through the window. Mid-day flights are ideal as the high sun makes the water colors pop.
Christmas Island National Park
Dense, prehistoric-looking rainforest canopy stretching across the island's central plateau.
Limestone Terraces
The unique tiered geological structure of Christmas Island, dropping steeply into the sea.
Outer Reef Break
The white line of breaking surf where the open ocean meets the hard coral edge of the West Island coast.
West Island Runway
A close-up view of the narrow strip of land that makes up the Cocos (Keeling) airport as you touch down.
The right side is excellent for viewing the rugged cliffs and vertical drops of Christmas Island immediately after takeoff. On arrival at Cocos, you will see the wild, windward side of West Island. This side is often better for spotting the 'fringing reef' effect where the waves break directly against the island's edge.
Distance: 985 km (612 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min
Departure: XCH (-10.450599670410156, 105.69000244140624)
Arrival: CCK (-12.1883001328, 96.8339004517)
Route Type: International
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