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ASP → DRW
Which side of the plane to sit from Alice Springs Airport (Alice Springs) to Darwin International Airport (Darwin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is slightly superior as it offers a more direct view of the spectacular Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk National Park) and the winding waterways of the Adelaide River system during the transition to the Top End.
East MacDonnell Ranges
Dramatic geological folds and gaps visible shortly after takeoff from Alice Springs.
Karlu Karlu
Also known as the Devil's Marbles, these giant granite boulders can be spotted near the Stuart Highway corridor.
Katherine Gorge
The stunning 13-canyon system of Nitmiluk National Park, where the river carves through ancient sandstone.
Adelaide River
Serpentine, chocolate-colored river loops that snake through lush green floodplains on the final approach.
Keep your camera ready about 45-55 minutes after takeoff for the best views of Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge). Morning flights provide the best lighting for the deep red hues of the Katherine canyons and the Barkly Tableland.
West MacDonnell Ranges
Ancient, parallel quartzite ridges that stretch toward the western horizon immediately after departure.
Tanami Desert
A vast, red-earthed wilderness featuring unique spinifex patterns and remote salt pans.
Victoria River Escarpment
Rugged limestone and sandstone plateaus that mark the transition from the desert to the tropics.
Litchfield National Park
Densely forested areas and the Tabletop Range visible during the final descent into Darwin.
Choose the left side for late afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour glow over the desert and a spectacular sunset over the Timor Sea if the approach path curves around Darwin's coastline.
Distance: 1,306 km (812 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 44 min
Departure: ASP (-23.806699752807617, 133.90199279785156)
Arrival: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Route Type: Domestic
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