While takeoff favors the left side with Chennai's urban and coastal features, the landing approach on the right side over the Jaffna Peninsula's distinctive lagoon system and narrow landform provides more visually interesting geography. The Palk Strait's shallow waters and the complex Jaffna Lagoon create more varied terrain than the open Bay of Bengal. Both sides score equally for the full flight, but the landing experience tips the recommendation to the right.
Flown MAA to JAF? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Madras to Jaffna is 221 miles (356 km), a flight of about 50 minutes.
Palk Strait (shallow waters between India and Sri Lanka), scattered fishing villages along the strait's Indian coast, the transition from Bay of Bengal to Palk Strait waters, agricultural plains of Tamil Nadu's coastal region
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MAA
LEFTLeft side captures Chennai's urban sprawl and the Cooum River delta during climb-out, with the Bay of Bengal coastline becoming visible. Right side offers only open ocean immediately after departure.
Landing at JAF
RIGHTRight side provides the approach into Jaffna over the Palk Strait and the distinctive Jaffna Peninsula geography, with views of the lagoon system and coastal features. Left side shows only open water during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chennai International (MAA) to Kankesanturai (JAF)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Madras to Jaffna. While takeoff favors the left side with Chennai's urban and coastal features, the landing approach on the right side over the Jaffna Peninsula's distinctive lagoon system and narrow landform provides more visually interesting geography. The Palk Strait's shallow waters and the complex Jaffna Lagoon create more varied terrain than the open Bay of Bengal. Both sides score equally for the full flight, but the landing experience tips the recommendation to the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Chennai International in Madras?
During takeoff from Chennai International (MAA), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Chennai's urban sprawl and the Cooum River delta during climb-out, with the Bay of Bengal coastline becoming visible. Right side offers only open ocean immediately after departure. Notable sights include: Chennai city grid and harbor, Cooum River estuary, Bay of Bengal coastline, Marina Beach district.
What can I see when landing at Kankesanturai in Jaffna?
When landing at Kankesanturai (JAF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides the approach into Jaffna over the Palk Strait and the distinctive Jaffna Peninsula geography, with views of the lagoon system and coastal features. Left side shows only open water during descent. Notable sights include: Jaffna Peninsula's narrow landform, Jaffna Lagoon system, Palk Strait waters, Mullaitivu coastline to the south.
How long is the flight from Madras to Jaffna?
The flight from Chennai International (MAA) to Kankesanturai (JAF) takes about 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 221 miles (356 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Madras to Jaffna flight path pass over?
Palk Strait (shallow waters between India and Sri Lanka), scattered fishing villages along the strait's Indian coast, the transition from Bay of Bengal to Palk Strait waters, agricultural plains of Tamil Nadu's coastal region