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BNE → PHE
Which side of the plane to sit from Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane) to Port Hedland International Airport (Port Hedland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the ancient Hamersley Ranges and the unique geography of the Channel Country, typically benefiting from more favorable lighting for photography during westbound transcontinental flights.
Moreton Bay
Clear views of the blue waters and islands of the Coral Sea immediately following takeoff from Brisbane.
Channel Country
Intricate, braided river systems of Southwest Queensland that create stunning patterns across the arid landscape.
Simpson Desert Edge
The striking red parallel sand dunes of the northern Simpson Desert visible as you cross into the interior.
Hamersley Range
Vibrant, iron-rich red gorges and some of the world's oldest geological formations as you enter the Pilbara.
Mining Operations
Aerial perspective of massive open-cut mines and long ore trains snaking through the desert toward the coast.
Sit on the left for the best afternoon lighting; the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare on the window. Pay close attention about 90 minutes into the flight for the Channel Country's water patterns. This side is also better for spotting the majestic red hues of the Pilbara ranges before descent.
Brisbane CBD
Panoramic views of the Brisbane River and city skyline if departing to the west or circling back.
Barkly Tableland
The vast, seemingly endless expanse of golden-brown grasslands spanning the Northern Territory border.
Tanami Desert
Remote, rugged desert terrain featuring occasional salt pans and unique spinifex vegetation patterns.
De Grey River
A wide, sandy riverbed that carves a prominent path through the dry landscape near the Western Australian coast.
Port Hedland Harbor
Spectacular views of the massive bulk carrier ships and industrial infrastructure of the world's largest export port.
The right side is prime for the descent into Port Hedland, providing a great angle to see the massive salt piles and the harbor's heavy industry. On early morning flights, this side is shielded from the direct rising sun, but on afternoon flights, expect significant glare. Keep a lookout for the vast salt lakes in the NT/WA border region.
Distance: 3,580 km (2,225 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 13 min
Departure: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Arrival: PHE (-20.3777999878, 118.625999451)
Route Type: Domestic
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