About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Kahului (OGG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Salt Lake City to Kahului. While landing favors the right, the dramatic 5-hour flight path over the Pacific offers more compelling views from the left during departure. The Wasatch Range climb-out is visually superior to most of the ocean crossing, and left seats capture the Hawaiian islands' windward sides better during approach if conditions allow.
What can I see during takeoff from Salt Lake City International in Salt Lake City?
During takeoff from Salt Lake City International (SLC), sit on the Left side for the best views. SLC typically departs northbound (Runways 16L/R) or southbound (Runways 34L/R). Left seats offer the best view of the Wasatch Range's dramatic eastern escarpment as you climb out, with the Oquirrh Mountains visible to the west. The Great Salt Lake spreads across the left side during initial climb. Notable sights include: Wasatch Range (east), Great Salt Lake (northwest), Oquirrh Mountains (west), Salt Lake Valley floor.
What can I see when landing at Kahului in Kahului?
When landing at Kahului (OGG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Approaching Kahului on Runway 02 (northbound) or Runway 20 (southbound), right seats capture the West Maui landscape and the dramatic sea cliffs of the northern coast. The island's volcanic ridgeline and the transition from ocean to land are striking on descent. Right seats also frame the approach over the Pailolo Channel with Molokai visible beyond. Notable sights include: West Maui volcanic ridge, Pailolo Channel, Molokai island (distant), Kahului Bay.
How long is the flight from Salt Lake City to Kahului?
The flight from Salt Lake City International (SLC) to Kahului (OGG) takes Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Salt Lake City to Kahului flight path pass over?
After climbing out over the Wasatch Range and crossing the Great Basin, you'll track southwest over Nevada and California. The flight path crosses the Sierra Nevada range (visible as a distant ridge if departing northbound), then continues over the Pacific. No major landmarks are visible during the 4+ hours of open ocean flight, though scattered Hawaiian islands may appear on the horizon in the final 90 minutes. The approach to Maui brings the West Maui ridge and Kahului Bay into clear view.