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DRW → GTE
Which side of the plane to sit from Darwin International Airport (Darwin) to Groote Eylandt Airport (Groote Eylandt)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the iconic Kakadu National Park floodplains and the dramatic sandstone escarpments of Arnhem Land, which are more visually striking than the coastal vistas to the north.
Kakadu Wetlands
Breathtaking views of the South and East Alligator River floodplains, teeming with birdlife and seasonal greenery.
Arnhem Land Escarpment
The 'Stone Country' features dramatic cliffs and ancient rock formations that glow in the sunlight.
Meandering River Systems
Observe the incredible oxbow lakes and complex braiding of the remote Arnhem Land rivers.
Central Arnhem Plateau
Fly over some of the most remote and untouched wilderness areas in Australia, largely inaccessible by road.
Remote Indigenous Outstations
Spot tiny, isolated communities nestled within the vast expanse of the bushland.
The right side is superior for afternoon flights, as the setting sun illuminates the red rocks of the escarpment. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct change in color from the green wetlands to the deep reds and browns of the plateau. This side offers the best geographic variety for the duration of the trip.
Van Diemen Gulf
Exiting Darwin, you will see the turquoise waters where the coastal rivers meet the sea.
Adelaide River Mouth
View the winding, serpent-like channels of the river systems known for their high crocodile populations.
Croker and Goulburn Islands
Look north to see these remote island chains dotting the Arafura Sea coastline.
Cobourg Peninsula
The distant northern tip of the Northern Territory with its pristine, uninhabited beaches.
Gove Peninsula Approach
As the flight nears the Gulf, the rugged northern coastline of Arnhem Land becomes visible.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the Arafura Sea. This side provides a great perspective of the transition from the mainland to the islands of the Gulf. Use a polarizing filter for photography to cut through the water's reflection.
Distance: 629 km (391 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min
Departure: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Arrival: GTE (-13.9750003815, 136.460006714)
Route Type: Domestic
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