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CNJ destination photo
TSV destination photo

CNJTSV

Which side of the plane to sit from Cloncurry Airport (Cloncurry) to Townsville Airport (Townsville)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛏️

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.1
🌾

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.

Top Activities in Townsville
Route Information

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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