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BNE → DRW
Which side of the plane to sit from Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane) to Darwin International Airport (Darwin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior panoramic view of the vast Australian interior, including the unique braided river patterns of the Channel Country and a more favorable angle for the Darwin city skyline and harbor during the final approach.
Brisbane City & River
Aerial views of the winding Brisbane River and CBD skyline immediately after takeoff from BNE.
Great Dividing Range
Crossing the rugged, forested peaks of the Main Range as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude.
Channel Country
The mesmerizing sight of ancient, braided river systems carved into the red earth of Central Queensland.
Barkly Tableland
The transition into the Northern Territory over immense, flat cattle stations and golden grasslands.
Darwin Harbour
Spectacular views of the turquoise waters, Darwin CBD, and the Waterfront precinct during the descent.
For afternoon flights, the left side provides the best vantage point for watching the sunset over the desert. During the 'Wet Season' (November to April), look for massive, isolated cumulonimbus clouds and lightning storms over the interior. Opt for a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the Channel Country's intricate textures.
Sunshine Coast Views
Distant views of the Glass House Mountains and the southern Queensland coastline shortly after departure.
Lake Buchanan
A large, shallow salt lake in Central Queensland that often displays striking white and pink hues.
Gulf of Carpentaria
Potential views of the southern coastline of the Gulf, where the arid land meets the tropical sea.
Katherine River
The winding path of the Katherine River as the flight enters the lush Top End region.
Kakadu Fringes
The edge of the Arnhem Land escarpment and the extensive floodplains surrounding the Mary River.
The right side is ideal for morning flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side of the aircraft, reducing glare on the window. Keep an eye out for the dramatic change in landscape from the dry red center to the lush, green tropical wetlands as you cross the 15th parallel. This side also offers better views of the expansive solar farms located near the Darwin outskirts.
Distance: 2,851 km (1,772 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Arrival: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Route Type: Domestic
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