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CNS destination photo
GOV destination photo

CNSGOV

Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Gove Airport (Gove)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is superior for its immediate views of the Great Barrier Reef after takeoff from Cairns and the spectacular approach over the Wessel Islands and the Gove Peninsula.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🪸

Great Barrier Reef

Incredible aerial perspectives of the coral formations and turquoise lagoons immediately north of Cairns.

🌊

Princess Charlotte Bay

The deep blue waters and remote sandy stretches of the northern Cape York Peninsula coastline.

🏝️

The Wessel Islands

A chain of remote islands stretching into the Arafura Sea, often visible during the descent into Gove.

🏭

Bauxite Refineries

The industrial landscape and distinctive red mud ponds of the Nhulunbuy alumina operations.

🏖️

Melville Bay

The white sands and deep blue waters surrounding the Gove Peninsula during the final approach.

The first 15 minutes are the highlight; ensure your window is clear to capture the reef. On afternoon flights, the right side offers the best lighting for photographing the vibrant red cliffs and bauxite deposits characteristic of the Gove region.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🛥️

Trinity Inlet

Panoramic views of the Cairns waterfront and the busy harbor activities shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Atherton Tablelands

The lush, rolling green hills and volcanic craters of the tropical highlands west of Cairns.

🌊

Mitchell River Delta

Intricate fractal patterns of river systems weaving through the dry savannah as you cross Cape York.

🌅

Gulf of Carpentaria

A vast expanse of sapphire blue water spanning the majority of the flight duration.

🏖️

Arnhem Land Coast

The rugged and untouched southern coastline of the Gove Peninsula as you approach the airport.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun reflecting off the Gulf. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain from the lush rainforests of the coast to the arid, red-soiled interior of the Cape.

Top Activities in Gove
Route Information

Distance: 1,090 km (677 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)

Arrival: GOV (-12.269399642899998, 136.817993164)

Route Type: Domestic

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