Loading map...
CNS → ADL
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Adelaide International Airport (Adelaide)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of Australia's diverse interior, including the prehistoric landscape of the Channel Country, the massive salt pans of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, and the stunning natural amphitheater of Wilpena Pound.
Atherton Tablelands
Rich volcanic landscapes and patchwork farming fields visible shortly after climbing out of Cairns.
Channel Country
Unique braided river systems that create intricate, vein-like patterns across the Queensland outback.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
The vast, shimmering expanse of Australia's largest salt lake, which can appear pink or white depending on water levels.
Wilpena Pound
The crown jewel of the Flinders Ranges, this massive natural mountain amphitheater is a geological marvel.
Spencer Gulf
Deep blue ocean inlets meeting the red earth of the Eyre Peninsula during the final approach phase.
The right side is unbeatable for viewing the geological heart of Australia. Afternoon flights offer dramatic shadows over the Flinders Ranges, highlighting the ridges of Wilpena Pound. Request a seat forward of the wing to avoid heat haze from the engines, which can distort the vast desert horizons.
Great Barrier Reef
Upon departure from Cairns, look east to catch the turquoise hues of the inner reef systems and the Coral Sea.
Great Dividing Range
Aerial views of the rugged peaks and dense rainforests that form the backbone of the East Coast.
Lake Frome
A striking, flat white salt lake located in the arid plains east of the Flinders Ranges.
Murray River Basin
The green, winding corridor of Australia's longest river system becomes visible as you approach South Australia.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography. It provides the best perspective of the Great Dividing Range's eastern escarpment. During the descent into Adelaide, look for the contrast between the dry interior and the irrigated lands along the Murray River.
Distance: 2,132 km (1,325 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 51 min
Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Arrival: ADL (-34.945, 138.53100600000002)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.