Loading map...
CBR โ OOL
Which side of the plane to sit from Canberra International Airport (Canberra) to Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular coastal journey, featuring the pristine beaches of Northern NSW, the iconic Byron Bay lighthouse, and a dramatic aerial view of the Gold Coast shoreline upon descent.
Lake George
A unique endorheic lake near Canberra known for its fluctuating water levels and wind farms.
Sydney Skyline
On clear days with an easterly flight path, the distant towers of the CBD and the harbor are visible.
Solitary Islands
A chain of islands and reefs near Coffs Harbour surrounded by vibrant turquoise marine park waters.
Cape Byron
Australia's easternmost point, featuring the famous white lighthouse and frequently visible pods of whales or dolphins.
Gold Coast Surf
During the final approach, enjoy a stunning panorama of the white sand beaches stretching from Coolangatta to Surfers Paradise.
Sit on the right for the most iconic Australian coastal views. For afternoon flights, the sun sets in the west, casting a golden glow over the beaches on the right side. During whale migration season (JuneโOctober), keep a close eye on the ocean near Byron Bay for splashes and breaches.
Brindabella Ranges
Visible shortly after takeoff, these rugged mountains represent the northern edge of the Australian Alps.
Blue Mountains
Deep sandstone gorges and hazy eucalyptus forests are visible as the flight traverses the Great Dividing Range.
Hunter Valley
A patchwork of famous vineyards and green rolling hills north of the Sydney basin.
Mount Warning
The ancient volcanic plug of the Tweed Valley, surrounded by dense Gondwana rainforest.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun over the Pacific. It provides a better perspective of the inland escarpments and the sheer scale of the Great Dividing Range. Look for the transition from the dry Canberra tablelands to the lush subtropical rainforests near the QLD border.
Distance: 892 km (554 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: CBR (-35.30690002441406, 149.19500732421875)
Arrival: OOL (-28.1644001007, 153.505004883)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.