Bora Bora to Papeete flight path: BOB to PPT

Sit on the left side of the plane

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Flight time45m
Distance161
Heading119° → 118°
Best side
LeftMostly left
★ 4.0 left·★ 3.5 right

While the Bora Bora takeoff favors the right side, the approach into Papeete offers the iconic view of Moorea's volcanic profile alongside Tahiti's reef and coastline, giving the left side the more memorable and varied overall scenery for this short island-hopping flight.

Flown BOB to PPT? Did we get it right?

Flight Path

Flight path overview

Bora Bora to Papeete is 161 miles (259 km), a flight of about 45 minutes.

Open Pacific waters between the Society Islands, with Raiatea and Tahaa occasionally visible to the north during cruise on clear days

Great circle distance and headings ›

Phase by phase

Takeoff from BOB

RIGHT

Departing Bora Bora on runway 11 heading southeast, the aircraft's turn puts the main island's dramatic volcanic spires on the right side, with the turquoise lagoon and barrier reef unfolding directly below as the plane climbs.

Mount OtemanuMount PahiaBora Bora lagoon and barrier reefmotu islets
BOB Bora BoraHub for Air Tahiti

Landing at PPT

LEFT

On approach to Papeete's runway 04, the flight path curves in from the west, giving left-side passengers a clear view of Moorea's jagged volcanic silhouette before the plane straightens out over Tahiti's north shore reef for landing.

Moorea's volcanic peaksTahiti's north coast reefPapeete harborMount Aorai in the distance
PPT Fa'a'ā International AirportHub for Air Tahiti Nui, Air Tahiti, Air Moana

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About This Route

Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bora Bora (BOB) to Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT)?

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Bora Bora to Papeete. While the Bora Bora takeoff favors the right side, the approach into Papeete offers the iconic view of Moorea's volcanic profile alongside Tahiti's reef and coastline, giving the left side the more memorable and varied overall scenery for this short island-hopping flight.

What can I see during takeoff from Bora Bora in Bora Bora?

During takeoff from Bora Bora (BOB), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Bora Bora on runway 11 heading southeast, the aircraft's turn puts the main island's dramatic volcanic spires on the right side, with the turquoise lagoon and barrier reef unfolding directly below as the plane climbs. Notable sights include: Mount Otemanu, Mount Pahia, Bora Bora lagoon and barrier reef, motu islets.

What can I see when landing at Fa'a'ā International Airport in Papeete?

When landing at Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to Papeete's runway 04, the flight path curves in from the west, giving left-side passengers a clear view of Moorea's jagged volcanic silhouette before the plane straightens out over Tahiti's north shore reef for landing. Notable sights include: Moorea's volcanic peaks, Tahiti's north coast reef, Papeete harbor, Mount Aorai in the distance.

How long is the flight from Bora Bora to Papeete?

The flight from Bora Bora (BOB) to Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) takes about 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 161 miles (259 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.

What does the Bora Bora to Papeete flight path pass over?

Open Pacific waters between the Society Islands, with Raiatea and Tahaa occasionally visible to the north during cruise on clear days