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CNS → GTE
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Groote Eylandt Airport (Groote Eylandt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the dramatic transition from the tropical rainforests of the Atherton Tablelands to the vast Mitchell River delta system, followed by a scenic approach into the southern part of Groote Eylandt.
Search flights from CNS to GTE
Trinity Inlet
Aerial view of Cairns city and the winding mangrove-lined waterways of the inlet immediately after takeoff.
Atherton Tablelands
Lush, emerald-green mountain ranges and volcanic craters that form part of the Great Dividing Range.
Mitchell River System
Incredible views of massive, winding river channels and ancient floodplains as you cross Cape York.
Gulf of Carpentaria
A vast expanse of shallow, turquoise water where the desert meets the sea in a striking color contrast.
Groote Southern Coast
Rugged sandstone cliffs and secluded white sandy beaches as the aircraft begins its descent into GTE.
Sit on the left for the best morning light; morning flights avoid the harsh glare reflecting off the Gulf of Carpentaria. Watch for the 'Morning Glory' cloud formations if flying during the spring months (September–October), as they are most visible over the southern Gulf region.
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Barron Gorge
Dramatic views of the steep-walled gorge and waterfalls just north of the Cairns airport perimeter.
Cape York Savannah
Endless horizons of golden-brown grasslands and remote cattle stations typical of the Australian outback.
Pormpuraaw Coastline
The remote western edge of the Cape York Peninsula, featuring pristine, untouched coastline and river mouths.
GEMCO Mining Operations
The massive scale of the manganese mining pits near Alyangula, showing deep red and black earth against the green scrub.
Milner Bay
The industrial wharf and the township of Alyangula as the plane lines up for the final approach.
The right side is ideal for spotting the industrial landscape of Groote Eylandt upon arrival. If you are on an afternoon flight, this side avoids direct sun, making it easier to photograph the remote wetlands of the Cape York Peninsula without cabin reflections.
Book Hotels in Groote EylandtDistance: 1,047 km (651 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Arrival: GTE (-13.9750003815, 136.460006714)
Route Type: Domestic
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