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BQL → ISA
Which side of the plane to sit from Boulia Airport (Boulia) to Mount Isa Airport (Mount Isa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the rugged Selwyn Range and the massive industrial infrastructure of the Mount Isa Mines as the aircraft approaches the city from the south.
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Channel Country Alluvium
Spectacular aerial views of the complex drainage networks that feed into the Lake Eyre Basin during wet seasons.
Phosphate Hill Proximity
Large-scale mining operations and evaporation ponds visible in the distance as you cross the Duchess region.
Mount Isa Smelter Stack
The iconic 270-meter tall lead smelter chimney, one of the tallest structures in the Southern Hemisphere, visible miles before landing.
Mount Isa Cityscape
A unique view of the city 'nested' among the rugged hills, showing the direct proximity of the mines to the urban center.
Lake Moondarra Glimpse
Depending on the wind direction and approach path, you may catch the blue waters of the lake north of the city.
The right side is essential for the iconic 'Lead Stack' view on the final approach into ISA. Morning flights provide excellent illumination of the Selwyn Range's rocky textures. Keep your camera ready as the plane descends over the city, as the transition from wilderness to heavy industry is abrupt and photogenic.
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Burke River Channels
Intricate patterns of ephemeral watercourses cutting through the arid landscape shortly after takeoff from Boulia.
Spinifex Plains
Vast stretches of golden-hued spinifex grass contrasting against the deep red oxidised soil of the outback.
Selwyn Range Ridges
Ancient, eroded mountain ridges appearing on the horizon as the flight progresses northward towards the Highlands.
Remote Cattle Stations
Bird's-eye view of isolated homesteads and windmills that define the vast grazing properties of Western Queensland.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights, as you will be facing away from the direct sun. Look for the distinct change in soil color from the pale clay of the channels to the vibrant reds of the desert uplands.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 254 km (158 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 25 min
Departure: BQL (-22.913299560546875, 139.89999389648438)
Arrival: ISA (-20.6639003754, 139.488998413)
Route Type: Domestic
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