Honolulu to Molokai is 55 miles (88 km), a flight of about 30 minutes.
While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of Molokai's north shore pali is genuinely spectacular and unique—a dramatic geological feature not easily seen from other approaches. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Kaiwi Channel between Oahu and Molokai. At midpoint, you'll see the open channel waters below with Oahu receding to the southwest and Molokai growing larger to the northeast. The windward coast of Molokai becomes increasingly visible, and on clear days the north shore cliffs begin to show their true scale as you approach.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from HNL
RIGHTHNL typically departs to the east or northeast. Right-side seats offer views of the Ko'olau Range and the windward Oahu coastline as you climb out over the island. Left seats face the Waianae Range and open ocean, which is less visually interesting during initial climb.
Landing at MKK
LEFTApproaching Molokai from the east (typical approach), left-side seats provide views of the island's dramatic north shore cliffs and the central ridge as you descend. Right seats face the open Pacific. The north shore's 3,000-foot pali (cliffs) are the most striking feature on approach.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Honolulu International (HNL) to Molokai (MKK)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Honolulu to Molokai. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view of Molokai's north shore pali is genuinely spectacular and unique—a dramatic geological feature not easily seen from other approaches. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
What can I see during takeoff from Honolulu International in Honolulu?
During takeoff from Honolulu International (HNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. HNL typically departs to the east or northeast. Right-side seats offer views of the Ko'olau Range and the windward Oahu coastline as you climb out over the island. Left seats face the Waianae Range and open ocean, which is less visually interesting during initial climb. Notable sights include: Ko'olau Range (dramatic northeastern ridge), Kailua Bay (turquoise water visible in the distance), Windward Oahu coastline, Diamond Head (visible to the south as you turn).
What can I see when landing at Molokai in Molokai?
When landing at Molokai (MKK), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Molokai from the east (typical approach), left-side seats provide views of the island's dramatic north shore cliffs and the central ridge as you descend. Right seats face the open Pacific. The north shore's 3,000-foot pali (cliffs) are the most striking feature on approach. Notable sights include: Molokai north shore pali (sea cliffs), central ridge and peaks, Kalaupapa peninsula (visible on the north coast), Molokai's windward coastline.
How long is the flight from Honolulu to Molokai?
The flight from Honolulu International (HNL) to Molokai (MKK) takes about 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 55 miles (88 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Honolulu to Molokai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Kaiwi Channel between Oahu and Molokai. At midpoint, you'll see the open channel waters below with Oahu receding to the southwest and Molokai growing larger to the northeast. The windward coast of Molokai becomes increasingly visible, and on clear days the north shore cliffs begin to show their true scale as you approach.