At Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport in Mattala: for takeoff, sit on the Right side; for landing, sit on the Right side. Notable views include: Rekawa Lagoon, Ussangoda Point, Indian Ocean coastline, Matara coastal plains.

When taking off from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Indian Ocean coastline and lagoons immediately south and east of the airport during typical eastbound departures. The left side faces inland toward less dramatic terrain with scattered villages and agricultural land. Notable sights include: Rekawa Lagoon, Ussangoda Point, Indian Ocean coastline, Matara coastal plains.

When landing at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Mattala's primary runway (16/34) typically handles approaches from the northwest, meaning descending aircraft align with the Indian Ocean coastline to your right. You'll see the dramatic transition from the southern Sri Lankan coast and lagoons into the airport's inland location, plus the distinctive flat terrain of the Matara District. Notable sights include: Indian Ocean coastline, Matara lagoon system, flat agricultural plains of southern Sri Lanka, Walawe River delta area.

The best window seat at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around Mattala (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.