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CNS → EDR
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Pormpuraaw Airport (Pormpuraaw)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic transition from the lush, tropical northern beaches of Cairns into the rugged wilderness of the Great Dividing Range and the sprawling Mitchell River delta.
Northern Beaches
Stunning vistas of Palm Cove, Double Island, and the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea shortly after departure.
Barron Gorge NP
Deep, ancient rainforest ravines and the winding path of the Barron River as it cuts through the mountains.
Mitchell River Delta
An incredible network of hundreds of braided river channels and tidal salt pans near the Gulf coast.
Gulf of Carpentaria
The vast, shallow horizon of the Gulf, which takes on vibrant orange and pink hues during afternoon flights.
The right side is essential for the best rainforest views. During the wet season (December to March), keep a sharp eye out for ephemeral waterfalls and the massive flooding of the Mitchell River systems.
Cairns Trinity Inlet
Bird's-eye view of the Cairns CBD, the marina, and the winding mangrove systems of the southern inlet.
Atherton Tablelands
The edge of the fertile high-altitude plateau, showcasing a patchwork of tropical agriculture and volcanic craters.
Cape York Savannah
Infinite stretches of eucalyptus woodlands and ancient termite mounds across the remote interior.
Edward River
As you descend into Pormpuraaw, the southern reaches of the Edward River system become visible against the Gulf.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is better for spotting the remote cattle stations and isolated dirt tracks that crisscross the Cape York interior.
Distance: 495 km (308 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 50 min
Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Arrival: EDR (-14.896451, 141.60908)
Route Type: Domestic
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