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DCN β PER
Which side of the plane to sit from RAAF Base Curtin (Derby) to Perth International Airport (Perth)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the Western Australian coastline, featuring the stark contrast between the red desert sands and the turquoise Indian Ocean, including World Heritage sites like Shark Bay.
King Sound
Massive tidal flats and muddy estuaries near Derby, home to some of the largest tidal ranges in the world.
Eighty Mile Beach
An endless ribbon of white sand where the Great Sandy Desert meets the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
Port Hedland
A massive industrial hub where you can see giant iron ore carriers and sprawling salt evaporation ponds.
Ningaloo Reef
The world's largest fringing coral reef, visible as a bright turquoise line against the deep blue sea.
Shark Bay
The distinct 'W' shape of the Peron Peninsula and the vibrant colors of the FranΓ§ois Peron National Park.
Houtman Abrolhos
A cluster of 122 islands and coral reefs located about 60km off the coast, appearing as jewels in the water.
This is the premier side for coastal views. Aim for a morning flight to have the sun behind the plane, illuminating the turquoise water and coral reefs. Keep a close eye out for the 'Red Bluff' area where the desert cliffs drop straight into the ocean. On the descent into Perth, you will often see the iconic Rottnest Island and the Swan River mouth.
Great Sandy Desert
Vast stretches of longitudinal red sand dunes and ancient arid landscapes characteristic of the Kimberley interior.
Hamersley Range
Rugged, iron-rich mountain formations appearing as deep purple and red folds in the earth's crust.
Salt Lake Systems
Brilliant white dry lake beds such as Lake Macleod that shimmer intensely under the Australian sun.
WA Wheatbelt
A geometric patchwork of gold and green agricultural fields as you approach the southern regions.
Darling Scarp
The ancient edge of the Yilgarn Craton, marking the transition from the plateau to the coastal plain near Perth.
Sit on this side for the best light during afternoon flights to avoid direct glare. Watch for the dramatic color shifts in the desert soil from deep ochre to pale yellow as the flight progresses south. The inland salt lakes are particularly striking around midday when the sun is directly overhead.
Distance: 1,781 km (1,107 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: DCN (-17.5813999176, 123.82800293)
Arrival: PER (-31.94029998779297, 115.96700286865234)
Route Type: Domestic
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