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CUQ → IRG
Which side of the plane to sit from Coen Airport (Coen) to Lockhart River Airport (Lockhart River)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers breathtaking views of the eastern escarpment of the McIlwraith Range, transitioning into the dense tropical rainforests of Iron Range National Park and the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea.
Coral Sea Horizon
As the plane trends northeast, the deep blues of the Coral Sea become visible on the horizon.
Iron Range National Park
Fly over the largest remaining area of lowland tropical rainforest in Australia, known as Kutini-Payamu.
Lloyd Bay
On the final approach, enjoy stunning views of the coastal fringe, white sand beaches, and coral reefs.
Coastal Escarpment
Watch the dramatic drop-off where the mountain ranges meet the narrow coastal plains.
For the most vivid colors of the Great Barrier Reef and Lloyd Bay, choose a seat on the right side. During the dry season (May to October), the air is clearest, offering views all the way to the coastline. If flying in the afternoon, the sun will be behind you, making the turquoise water of the bay pop for photography.
McIlwraith Range
View the rugged granite uplands and dense upland rainforests of the Cape York interior.
Pascoe River
Observe the winding paths of the upper Pascoe River as it carves through the tropical landscape.
Savannah Woodlands
Expansive views of the pristine tropical savannah that characterizes the center of the peninsula.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun. Keep an eye out for the distinct change in vegetation as the plane moves from the drier Coen region into the wetter tropical zones. High-wing aircraft are common on this route, providing unobstructed views of the river systems below.
Distance: 110 km (68 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 min
Departure: CUQ (-13.761133, 143.113311)
Arrival: IRG (-12.7869, 143.304993)
Route Type: Domestic
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