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XCH destination photo
CCK destination photo

XCHCCK

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌳

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.

Top Activities in Cocos Keeling Island
Route Information

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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