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DRW destination photo
CNS destination photo

DRWCNS

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for its proximity to the coastline of Arnhem Land and the breathtaking first glimpses of the Great Barrier Reef and Trinity Bay during the descent into Cairns.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Darwin Harbor

Aerial views of the massive natural harbor and the Arafura Sea as the plane climbs out of the Northern Territory.

🏝️

Arnhem Land Coast

Spectacular views of the remote, rugged coastline and the turquoise waters of the Arafura Sea.

🗾

Wessel Islands

A string of narrow islands stretching out into the sea, visible as the flight traverses the northern tip of the Gulf.

⛴️

Gulf of Carpentaria

Deep blue ocean views as the flight crosses this massive body of water separating the NT from Queensland.

🪸

Great Barrier Reef

The stunning coral formations and bright blue lagoons of the world's largest reef system become visible on the descent.

🚤

Trinity Bay

A close-up view of the Cairns coastline and waterfront as the plane aligns for its final approach.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Look out early for the intricate river systems of the Top End. As you approach Cairns, this side offers the best chance to spot coral formations and the turquoise waters of the reef before touchdown. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing for the most unobstructed view of the reef colors.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌳

Kakadu Fringe

Views of the wetlands and floodplains of the eastern Northern Territory during the initial phase of the flight.

🏝️

Groote Eylandt

Depending on the specific flight path, this large island in the Gulf of Carpentaria may be visible to the south.

🏜️

Cape York Peninsula

The vast, red-earthed wilderness of Northern Queensland as the flight moves inland across the peninsula.

⛰️

Great Dividing Range

The lush, forested mountains that border the Queensland coast, providing a dramatic backdrop for the descent.

🏞️

Barron Gorge

Deep valleys and dense rainforest of the Atherton Tablelands visible just before landing.

🏙️

Cairns City

A panoramic view of the city layout and the industrial port area as the plane nears the runway.

The right side offers a rugged perspective of the Australian interior and the southern Gulf of Carpentaria. During the final approach, you will get a great view of the lush rainforest-covered mountains of the Great Dividing Range and the Cairns city center. This side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the setting sun on the northern side.

Top Activities in Cairns
Route Information

Distance: 1,675 km (1,041 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 14 min

Departure: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)

Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)

Route Type: Domestic

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