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CNJ → TSV
Which side of the plane to sit from Cloncurry Airport (Cloncurry) to Townsville Airport (Townsville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the ancient lava flows of the Great Basalt Wall and a more dramatic perspective of Magnetic Island and the northern coastline upon descent into Townsville.
Cloncurry Mining Scars
Witness the deep red pits and industrial infrastructure of the region's copper and gold mining operations shortly after departure.
Great Basalt Wall
Look north to see the dark, rugged terrain of the Great Basalt Wall, a 100km long ancient lava flow covered in dense scrub.
Burdekin Catchment
Cross the sprawling northern tributaries of the Burdekin River system, appearing as silver veins against the parched landscape.
Magnetic Island
During the final approach into Townsville, enjoy panoramic views of the granite boulders and turquoise bays of Magnetic Island.
The Strand
View Townsville's iconic waterfront promenade and the northern suburbs as the plane aligns with the runway.
For morning flights, the left side avoids direct glare from the sun, which sits to the north. Watch closely during the final 10 minutes of the flight as the descent over the Coral Sea often provides the best photo opportunities of the islands and the Great Barrier Reef fringe.
Mitchell Grass Downs
View the vast, undulating plains of golden Mitchell grass that define the central Queensland outback.
White Mountains NP
Identify the white sandstone formations and rugged gorges of the White Mountains National Park located south of the flight path.
Mount Elliot
See the massive rainforest-clad peaks of Mount Elliot rising 1,200 meters from the surrounding coastal plains.
Port of Townsville
Get a bird's-eye view of the busy shipping port and the various vessels anchored in Cleveland Bay.
Castle Hill
Spot the giant pink granite monolith that dominates the Townsville skyline just before landing.
The right side is ideal for spotting the transition from the arid interior to the lush Bowling Green Bay National Park. In the late afternoon, the light hitting Mount Elliot provides exceptional contrast for photography, though be prepared for some solar glare mid-day.
Distance: 673 km (418 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: CNJ (-20.6686000824, 140.503997803)
Arrival: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Route Type: Domestic
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