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DRW → TSV
Which side of the plane to sit from Darwin International Airport (Darwin) to Townsville Airport (Townsville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior mix of tropical coastal vistas, the vastness of the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the iconic approach over Magnetic Island into Townsville.
Van Diemen Gulf
Immediately after departure from Darwin, witness the turquoise waters and intricate mangrove systems of the Northern Territory coast.
Alligator River Systems
Aerial views of the winding, tea-colored rivers that snake through the floodplains toward Kakadu National Park.
Gulf of Carpentaria
The flight crosses the southern edge of the Gulf, offering views of the vast salt pans and the changing colors of the shoreline.
Gregory Range
Observe the ancient sandstone escarpments and rugged terrain as you cross into North Queensland.
Magnetic Island
On final approach, look out for the granite peaks and sandy bays of this island paradise sitting in the Coral Sea.
Book a window seat on the left (port) side for the best approach views. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, highlighting the colors of the Gulf and the coral reefs. Watch for the 'braided' river patterns near Karumba which look like abstract art from 30,000 feet.
Northern Territory Outback
Vast stretches of red earth and scrubland that define the Australian interior.
Barkly Tableland
The flight passes the northern edge of these famous grasslands, where enormous cattle stations are occasionally visible.
Mining Landscapes
Occasional views of open-cut mines and geometric patterns of exploration tracks in the Selwyn Range area.
Flinders Highway
The long, straight stretch of road and rail connecting the coast to the interior becomes visible during the descent.
Townsville Hinterland
Views of the scrub-covered hills and the sprawling suburbs of Townsville as the plane aligns for landing.
If flying in the late afternoon, the right side may experience significant sun glare. However, this side provides the best view of the sun setting over the desert landscape. Look for the massive circular irrigation plots on stations near the Queensland border.
Distance: 1,860 km (1,156 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min
Departure: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Arrival: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Route Type: Domestic
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