Both sides score equally for the cruise segment over flat terrain and inland plains, but the landing approach to Navi Mumbai provides superior scenic value with the Thane Creek estuary, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and Arabian Sea coastline. Chennai's takeoff advantage is outweighed by the landing experience on the right side.
Flown MAA to NMI? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Madras to Navi Mumbai is 628 miles (1,010 km), a flight of about 1 hour 25 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Western Ghats foothills near Pune, transitioning from the Deccan Plateau's agricultural lands to the coastal plains approaching the Arabian Sea. The Godavari River basin and scattered reservoirs are visible in the central portion of the route. No major mountain passes or dramatic terrain features dominate the cruise segment—the landscape remains predominantly flat to gently rolling with agricultural fields, small towns, and sparse vegetation.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MAA
LEFTChennai departure offers immediate coastal views of the Bay of Bengal and the city's harbor infrastructure, with the Cooum River delta visible below. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during climb-out.
Landing at NMI
RIGHTNavi Mumbai approach provides views of the Arabian Sea coastline, the Thane Creek estuary, and the Greater Mumbai metropolitan area including the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and harbor. Left side shows only inland plains and scattered development with no distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chennai International (MAA) to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Madras to Navi Mumbai. Both sides score equally for the cruise segment over flat terrain and inland plains, but the landing approach to Navi Mumbai provides superior scenic value with the Thane Creek estuary, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, and Arabian Sea coastline. Chennai's takeoff advantage is outweighed by the landing experience on the right side.
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. Chennai departure offers immediate coastal views of the Bay of Bengal and the city's harbor infrastructure, with the Cooum River delta visible below. Right side shows inland plains with minimal visual interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Chennai harbor and port facilities, Cooum River delta, Bay of Bengal coastline, inland agricultural plains transitioning to the west.
What can I see when landing at Navi Mumbai International Airport in Navi Mumbai?
When landing at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Navi Mumbai approach provides views of the Arabian Sea coastline, the Thane Creek estuary, and the Greater Mumbai metropolitan area including the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and harbor. Left side shows only inland plains and scattered development with no distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: Thane Creek and mangrove estuaries, Bandra-Worli Sea Link bridge, Mumbai harbor and shipping lanes, Navi Mumbai's planned urban grid.
How long is the flight from Madras to Navi Mumbai?
The flight from Chennai International (MAA) to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI) takes about 1 hour 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 628 miles (1,010 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Madras to Navi Mumbai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Western Ghats foothills near Pune, transitioning from the Deccan Plateau's agricultural lands to the coastal plains approaching the Arabian Sea. The Godavari River basin and scattered reservoirs are visible in the central portion of the route. No major mountain passes or dramatic terrain features dominate the cruise segment—the landscape remains predominantly flat to gently rolling with agricultural fields, small towns, and sparse vegetation.