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DAU → LAE
Which side of the plane to sit from Daru Airport (Daru) to Nadzab Airport (Nadzab)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the intricate Fly River delta and the most rugged sections of the PNG interior, culminating in the expansive Markham Valley.
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Fly River Delta
Aerial view of one of the world's largest river systems with its complex network of mangrove islands.
Papuan Plateau
Dramatic limestone karst formations and deep sinkholes hidden beneath dense primary rainforest.
Bismarck Range
Stunning views of the high-altitude peaks forming the central spine of the New Guinea mainland.
Markham Valley
The wide, flat valley floor that serves as the gateway to the Highlands, visible during the final descent.
Book an early morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the heavy convective cloud cover that typically forms over the Highlands by midday. The left side is particularly impressive for seeing the transition from the wet lowlands to the alpine peaks. Choose a seat forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block your view of the river meanders.
Get eSIMs for Papua New Guinea
Get eSIMs for Papua New Guinea
Gulf of Papua
The vast, shimmering blue expanse where the Arafura Sea meets the southern coastline.
Owen Stanley Range
Distances views of the southern slopes of this iconic mountain range, famous for the Kokoda Track.
Markham River Silt
Watch the dramatic plume of brown sediment from the Markham River mixing with the blue waters of the Huon Gulf.
Huon Gulf
Panoramic views of the coastline approaching Lae, including industrial shipping lanes and coastal villages.
The right side is ideal for photographers interested in the contrast between the deep blue Gulf and the green landmass. Keep your camera ready as you approach Nadzab for the sharp turn over the Huon Gulf, which provides excellent perspectives of the coastline near Lae. Polarized filters are recommended to cut through the haze and water reflection.
Book Hotels in NadzabDistance: 478 km (297 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: DAU (-9.08675956726, 143.207992554)
Arrival: LAE (-6.569803, 146.725977)
Route Type: Domestic
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