About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hiroshima (HIJ) to Naha (OKA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hiroshima to Naha. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is significantly more rewarding—the Kerama Islands and Okinawa's topography provide more visual interest than the relatively featureless Pacific approach from the right. Left wins overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Hiroshima in Hiroshima?
During takeoff from Hiroshima (HIJ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Hiroshima typically departs to the south or southeast. Right-side seats offer views of the Seto Inland Sea's eastern basin and the Ōta River delta where the city sits. Left side faces inland toward the Chūgoku Mountains, which are less visually distinctive from altitude. Notable sights include: Seto Inland Sea (immediate water body), Ōta River delta (city's western edge), islands dotting the inland sea to the southeast, Chūgoku Mountains (distant inland ridge to the north and west).
What can I see when landing at Naha in Naha?
When landing at Naha (OKA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Naha typically lands from the north or northeast on Runway 32. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Okinawa's central plateau, the Kerama Islands to the west, and the approach over Nakijin and Motobu areas. Right side faces the Pacific and offers less distinctive geography during final approach. Notable sights include: Kerama Islands (west of Okinawa main island), Okinawa's central forested plateau, Motobu Peninsula (northern Okinawa), East China Sea.
How long is the flight from Hiroshima to Naha?
The flight from Hiroshima (HIJ) to Naha (OKA) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Hiroshima to Naha flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Seto Inland Sea heading south, passing over or near the Itsukushima area and smaller islands of the inland sea. The aircraft then transitions over open water (Bungo Channel and northern approaches to the Kuroshio Current region) before reaching Okinawa. The Kerama Islands become visible on the left approximately 30 minutes before landing.