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BNE → POM
Which side of the plane to sit from Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane) to Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the Queensland coast, the right side provides an unparalleled vantage point for the Great Barrier Reef's turquoise lagoons and the dramatic approach into Port Moresby over the Owen Stanley Range foothills.
Moreton Bay
Crystal clear views of Moreton Island and North Stradbroke Island immediately after takeoff from BNE.
Great Barrier Reef
Breathtaking views of the world's largest coral reef system, visible as vibrant blue and green patches in the ocean.
Coral Sea
The deep blue expanse of the Coral Sea, often dotted with cargo ships and remote atolls.
Owen Stanley Range
The massive, mist-shrouded peaks of Papua New Guinea's central mountain spine appearing on the horizon.
Fairfax Harbour
The natural deep-water harbor of Port Moresby, featuring traditional stilt villages like Hanuabada.
The right side is the 'reef side'. For the best color saturation of the Great Barrier Reef, choose a midday flight when the sun is high. On the approach to POM, the right side usually offers the best view of the Papuan coastline and the dramatic rise of the Owen Stanley Range. Ensure your window is clean, as the reef photography from 30,000 feet is world-class on this route.
Sunshine Coast
Aerial views of Noosa Heads and the winding waterways of the Sunshine Coast shortly after departure.
Fraser Island (K'gari)
The world's largest sand island, showing off its unique perched lakes and vast dune systems.
Great Dividing Range
The rugged peaks and valleys of Australia's most substantial mountain range stretching along the horizon.
Cape York Peninsula
The remote and wild landscapes of Northern Queensland as the flight tracks toward the Torres Strait.
Port Moresby Skyline
A close-up view of the urban landscape and the busy central business district during the final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun reflecting off the Coral Sea. This side is superior for spotting the distinct geography of the Australian coastline and the transition from subtropical forests to the dry savannahs of the north. Look for the massive sand formations of K'gari about 30-40 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 2,089 km (1,298 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 47 min
Departure: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Arrival: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Route Type: International
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