About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Kona International At Keahole (KOA)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Kona. The left side misses the best of the LAX departure but delivers the spectacular Big Island volcanic landscape on arrival, which is one of the most dramatic approach views in domestic US aviation. The right side has a better departure but faces open ocean for the entire approach. Left wins on the strength of the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa arrival view.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. LAX typically departs westbound over the ocean on runways 24L/24R, then turns southwest toward Hawaii. The right side captures the Santa Monica Bay coastline curving north, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and Catalina Island in the distance as the aircraft banks south. The left side faces open ocean almost immediately. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay coastline, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Catalina Island (on clear days), Long Beach Harbor.
What can I see when landing at Kona International At Keahole in Kona?
When landing at Kona International At Keahole (KOA), sit on the Left side for the best views. KOA sits on the northwest Kona coast of the Big Island. Aircraft typically approach from the north or northeast, landing on runway 17 heading south. The left side faces east toward the interior, giving a dramatic view of Mauna Kea (13,796 ft) and Mauna Loa (13,678 ft) rising above the lava fields. The right side looks out over open ocean. Notable sights include: Mauna Kea summit, Mauna Loa volcanic shield, Hualalai volcano, black lava fields of the Kona coast.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Kona?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Kona International At Keahole (KOA) takes Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Los Angeles to Kona flight path pass over?
The flight crosses roughly 2,400 miles of open Pacific Ocean. There are no islands or land features visible along the route until the Big Island appears. The Hawaiian Ridge and Emperor Seamount Chain lie far below the surface and are not visible. Passengers may see occasional cloud formations over the open ocean and, on very clear days, the first glimpse of the Big Island's volcanic peaks rising above the cloud layer about 100 miles out.