Right-side seats capture the superior scenery on departure (Tahiti's volcanic peaks) and offer reasonable views during approach. While left seats excel on landing, the takeoff experience over Tahiti's dramatic terrain is more visually rewarding.
Flown PPT to RAR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Papeete to Avarua is 711 miles (1,144 km), a flight of about 2 hours 5 minutes.
The flight path crosses open Pacific Ocean between the two island groups. Roughly midway, the Tuamotu Archipelago's low coral atolls may be visible on clear days—appearing as thin rings of white sand and shallow turquoise lagoons scattered across the dark ocean. The atoll chains run roughly northwest-southeast. Beyond the Tuamotus, the ocean remains open until Rarotonga's volcanic peak becomes visible on the horizon approximately 30-40 minutes before landing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PPT
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the dramatic volcanic peaks of Tahiti as the aircraft climbs eastward. The island's central ridge and Orohena peak are prominent during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at RAR
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best view during approach to Rarotonga. The island's distinctive circular shape, central Te Rua Manga peak, and surrounding reef system are clearly visible on descent from the west.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) to Rarotonga International (RAR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Papeete to Avarua. Right-side seats capture the superior scenery on departure (Tahiti's volcanic peaks) and offer reasonable views during approach. While left seats excel on landing, the takeoff experience over Tahiti's dramatic terrain is more visually rewarding.
What can I see during takeoff from Fa'a'ā International Airport in Papeete?
During takeoff from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the dramatic volcanic peaks of Tahiti as the aircraft climbs eastward. The island's central ridge and Orohena peak are prominent during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Orohena peak (7,352 ft), Tahiti's central volcanic ridge, Fa'a'ā coastal plain, Papeete harbor and waterfront.
What can I see when landing at Rarotonga International in Avarua?
When landing at Rarotonga International (RAR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best view during approach to Rarotonga. The island's distinctive circular shape, central Te Rua Manga peak, and surrounding reef system are clearly visible on descent from the west. Notable sights include: Te Rua Manga (2,139 ft), Rarotonga's circular volcanic island, surrounding coral reef and lagoon, Avarua settlement on the northern coast.
How long is the flight from Papeete to Avarua?
The flight from Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) to Rarotonga International (RAR) takes about 2 hours 5 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 711 miles (1,144 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Papeete to Avarua flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses open Pacific Ocean between the two island groups. Roughly midway, the Tuamotu Archipelago's low coral atolls may be visible on clear days—appearing as thin rings of white sand and shallow turquoise lagoons scattered across the dark ocean. The atoll chains run roughly northwest-southeast. Beyond the Tuamotus, the ocean remains open until Rarotonga's volcanic peak becomes visible on the horizon approximately 30-40 minutes before landing.