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DJJ → MKQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Sentani International Airport (Jayapura) to Mopah Airport (Merauke)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the most iconic landmarks of the route, starting with an immediate panorama of Lake Sentani followed by potential glimpses of the central highland glaciers and the unique savanna landscapes near Merauke.
Lake Sentani
A stunning view of the sprawling lake with its numerous inhabited islands and emerald green hills right after departure.
Lorentz National Park Peaks
On exceptionally clear days, you may spot the distant white glint of the Carstensz Pyramid (Puncak Jaya) glaciers to the southwest.
Southern Wetlands
A vast expanse of tropical swamps and sago forests that make up one of the world's most significant wetland ecosystems.
Wasur National Park Savanna
As you approach Merauke, the landscape transforms into an Australian-like savanna dotted with giant termite mounds.
Merauke Town Layout
A clear view of the grid-like streets of Indonesia's easternmost city as the plane aligns for landing at Mopah.
Early morning flights are critical; by 10:00 AM, the central mountains are typically obscured by thick cumulus clouds. Use a polarizer to cut through the haze and enhance the vibrant greens of the Papuan jungle and the blues of Lake Sentani.
Cycloop Mountains
Rising sharply from the coast, these rugged peaks provide a dramatic backdrop immediately after takeoff from Jayapura.
Star Mountains
The eastern edges of the central cordillera, showcasing some of the most remote and untouched limestone peaks in Papua.
Digul River Curves
Hypnotic, massive oxbow loops of the Digul River winding through dense, dark green primary rainforest.
Arafura Sea Coastline
The muddy, nutrient-rich waters where the southern rivers meet the sea, creating a distinct color gradient during the final descent.
Sit toward the back of the aircraft to keep the wing out of your photos when capturing the Digul River's massive bends. The morning light from the east illuminates the mountain ridges beautifully, providing high-contrast textures for photography.
Distance: 661 km (411 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 6 min
Departure: DJJ (-2.5769500733, 140.5160064698)
Arrival: MKQ (-8.520290374755861, 140.41799926757812)
Route Type: Domestic
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