About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kona International At Keahole (KOA) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Kona to Los Angeles. Right side wins both the departure over Hawaii's volcanic peaks and the arrival into the LA Basin. During the cruise over open ocean there is little to differentiate sides, but the bookend views at both ends of the flight make right the clear choice for the full journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Kona International At Keahole in Kona?
During takeoff from Kona International At Keahole (KOA), sit on the Right side for the best views. KOA's primary departure runway 17 heads south, then aircraft turn northeast toward the mainland. A right-side seat gives you the best view of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa as you climb out over the Kohala Coast. The massive volcanic slopes dominate the island's interior and are clearly visible during the climbing turn. Notable sights include: Mauna Kea (13,796 ft summit with observatory domes), Mauna Loa's broad shield profile, Kohala Coast lava fields, Hualalai volcano.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically lands on runways 24L/24R heading west, meaning the approach comes from the east over the Los Angeles Basin. Right-side seats face north during this approach, giving clear views of downtown LA, the Hollywood Hills, and the Santa Monica Mountains. Left side faces south toward the less scenic South Bay. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Hollywood Hills and Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Mountains, Santa Monica Bay coastline.
How long is the flight from Kona to Los Angeles?
The flight from Kona International At Keahole (KOA) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Kona to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The vast majority of this flight crosses open North Pacific Ocean with no land visible. The flight path passes north of the Hawaiian island chain shortly after departure. At cruise altitude you may glimpse the remaining Hawaiian islands — Maui's Haleakala and Oahu — briefly on the right side early in the flight before open ocean takes over for roughly 4 hours. As the California coast approaches, the Channel Islands (San Clemente, Santa Catalina, San Nicolas) become visible on the right side during descent.