There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic feeling of approaching your long-awaited destination when the pilot announces the descent of the aircraft, seat-backs and tray tables are put back in their up-right and locked position, and the window seat rolls up their shade to capture the best views of the approach to land. Around the world, some airports stand above the rest offering extra special views of the destination.
Here are the five most stunning and unique airports to approach for pilots and passengers alike:
1. Princess Juliana International Airport — St. Maarten
Hit the beach without even touching the ground when flying into Caribbean island’s St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana International Airport. Getting as close to 15 feet to the beach, the view from the plane will offer clear turquoise water, white sands, as well as the tourists and onlookers of Maho Beach. Adjacent to the airport, Maho Beach, is known for its unique view for plane watching as the aircrafts swoop low directly overhead.
2. Dubai International Airport — United Arab Emirates
Dubai is home to not only the world’s busiest airport by international passenger traffic, but also one of the most phenomenal and unique city landscapes offered from a plane. From the comfort of your seat, spot the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, towering over the city and the infamous Palm Islands jetting off the coast.
3. Queenstown Airport — New Zealand
Fly into the picturesque town of Queenstown, New Zealand and witness snow-capped towering mountains, glacier carved Lake Wakatipu, and the lush greenery the country has to offer. For Lord of the Rings fans, experience Middle-earth™ from above as you fly over South Island, the filming location for much of the hit series.
4. San Francisco International Airport — United States
See the iconic landmarks of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge when flying into San Francisco International Airport. If approaching from the north, get a taste of California’s expansive vineyards overhead Sonoma and Napa Valley. Upon reaching the city, see the famous red Golden Gate Bridge up close and take in the city landscape and multiple piers.
5. Cape Town International Airport — South Africa
Experience the intersection of land and water by flying over beautiful Cape Town, South Africa. On the coast, see the famous Cape Peninsula home to Cape of Good Hope off the southern tip of South Africa. Towering behind the city buildings, get a unique view of the jaw-dropping Table Mountain, which is also known to be seen above the clouds from the sky.
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