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BNE → CNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane) to Cairns International Airport (Cairns)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the Great Barrier Reef, iconic white-sand islands, and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Coral Sea coast.
K'gari (Fraser Island)
The world's largest sand island, featuring perched freshwater lakes and massive dune systems.
Whitsunday Islands
Stunning aerial views of turquoise waters and white silica sands around Hamilton and Hayman Islands.
Great Barrier Reef
The intricate patterns of the world's largest coral reef system become clearly visible north of Mackay.
Magnetic Island
A rugged granite island with secluded bays located just off the coast of Townsville.
Trinity Bay
Deep blue ocean views and coastal mangroves during the final approach into Cairns International.
A morning flight is ideal as the sun is behind you, making the coral reef colors pop. Aim for a seat behind the wing to ensure your view of the reef isn't obstructed. Watch closely about 20 minutes before landing for the most concentrated coral formations.
Glass House Mountains
Distinctive volcanic plugs rising sharply from the coastal plain shortly after departure.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland
Lush, rolling green ridges of the Blackall Range and surrounding state forests.
Agricultural Landscapes
Geometric patterns of sugar cane fields and macadamia orchards through central Queensland.
Great Dividing Range
The rugged spine of the Australian continent stretching along the western horizon.
Atherton Tablelands
Fertile volcanic plateaus and dense rainforest canopies visible during the descent into Cairns.
Choose this side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun over the ocean. It is particularly scenic during the final descent as the aircraft maneuvers through the coastal mountain ranges and rainforest valleys of the Wet Tropics.
Distance: 1,391 km (864 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 51 min
Departure: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Route Type: Domestic
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