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ATL → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the African sunrise and a better perspective of the diverse Central African rainforests and the Gulf of Guinea coastline.
African Sunrise
A spectacular sunrise over the South Atlantic Ocean or the West African coast depending on seasonal winds.
Gulf of Guinea
Views of the emerald coastline where the Atlantic meets West African nations like Ivory Coast or Ghana.
Congo Rainforest
The vast, dense green canopy of the Congo Basin, often shrouded in atmospheric tropical mists.
Winding River Systems
Aerial views of the massive, meandering rivers like the Ubangi and Congo cutting through the jungle.
Pretoria Approach
As the plane descends into the Highveld, the urban sprawl of South Africa's administrative capital becomes visible.
Book an 'A' seat to witness the sun rising over the African continent. This flight typically crosses the coastline at dawn; watching the landscape change from deep ocean blue to lush tropical green is a highlight. Use a polarising filter if photographing, as the tropical haze can be thick over Central Africa.
Georgia Departure
Aerial views of the lush Piedmont region and the outskirts of Atlanta immediately after takeoff.
Cape Verde
Occasional distant views of the volcanic islands if the flight path tracks slightly further west over the Atlantic.
Kalahari Basin
The striking transition to the arid, orange-tinted landscapes of the Kalahari as you enter Southern Africa.
Limpopo River
The geographic boundary between Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa visible during the final descent phase.
Magaliesberg Mountains
One of the world's oldest mountain ranges, appearing as long, ancient ridges just before arrival in Johannesburg.
Choose a 'K' seat to enjoy softer afternoon light during the descent into OR Tambo. This side is particularly good for spotting the distinct orange sands of the Kalahari and avoiding the glare of the morning sun. Look out for the Magaliesberg ridges about 20 minutes before landing.
Distance: 13,583 km (8,440 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 hrs 59 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
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