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BLZ → LLW
Which side of the plane to sit from Chileka International Airport (Blantyre) to Lilongwe International Airport (Lilongwe)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic Malawian landscapes, including early views of the Zomba Massif, the winding Shire River, and the distant shimmer of Lake Malawi.
Blantyre Cityscape
A panoramic view of Malawi's commercial capital and its surrounding seven hills shortly after departure.
Zomba Massif
A stunning flat-topped mountain rising to nearly 2,000 meters, visible to the east in the first half of the flight.
Shire River & Lake Malombe
The outlet of Lake Malawi winding through the Rift Valley, with the smaller Lake Malombe visible on clear days.
Lake Malawi Horizon
On high-visibility days, the southern tip of the 'Lake of Stars' can be seen shimmering on the distant eastern horizon.
For the best experience, book an early morning flight when the air is clearest and the Zomba Massif isn't obscured by midday haze. This side is superior for spotting major water bodies and the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment. Keep your camera ready about 10 minutes into the flight for the best mountain shots.
Michiru Mountain
Immediately after takeoff from Chileka, look for this prominent conservation area and peaks bordering Blantyre.
Kirk Range Highlands
Rugged terrain and high-altitude plateaus along the border with Mozambique featuring traditional farming patches.
Dedza Mountain
The western slopes of this massive granite peak, often shrouded in mist, visible mid-flight.
Central Region Plateau
The landscape flattens into the fertile agricultural heartland of Malawi as you approach Lilongwe.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour light over the Kirk Range. It provides a better perspective of the rural highlands and the complex agricultural patterns near the Mozambique border. During the rainy season (Dec-Mar), the hillsides are exceptionally vibrant green.
Distance: 246 km (153 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: BLZ (-15.679100036621096, 34.9739990234375)
Arrival: LLW (-13.7894001007, 33.78099823)
Route Type: Domestic
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