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DUR → ELS
Which side of the plane to sit from King Shaka International Airport (Durban) to Ben Schoeman Airport (East London)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the South African coastline, including the rugged and pristine Wild Coast, river estuaries, and traditional rural landscapes of the Eastern Cape.
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Durban Harbour
A bird's-eye view of Africa's busiest port, the container terminals, and the iconic Bluff headland.
South Coast Beaches
A continuous ribbon of golden sand and holiday towns like Amanzimtoti and Port Shepstone stretching southward.
Port St. Johns
The dramatic Gates of St. John, where the Umzimvubu River carves a path between two massive sandstone cliffs.
Transkei Rondavels
Scenic views of the rolling green hills of the Eastern Cape dotted with colorful, traditional round houses.
Wild Coast Cliffs
Stunning views of untouched, rugged shorelines where steep cliffs drop vertically into the crashing surf.
Great Kei River
The winding path of the Great Kei River, which serves as a significant historical and geographic provincial boundary.
For the best experience, sit on the right side away from the wing to fully appreciate the Wild Coast. This route is most scenic in the morning when the sun illuminates the coastline from behind the plane, bringing out the turquoise colors of the water. Between June and August, look for dark patches in the water which may indicate the 'Sardine Run' and associated marine activity.
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Indian Ocean Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Indian Ocean, with potential whale sightings during the winter migration season.
Durban Shipping Lanes
Large cargo vessels and tankers anchored outside the Port of Durban waiting for their turn to dock.
Oceanic Sun Glint
Beautiful reflections of sunlight on the water's surface, particularly striking during early morning departures.
The left side is dominated by the ocean for the majority of the flight. However, on the final descent into East London, you may catch a glimpse of the city's port and the Nahoon River area as the aircraft banks to line up with the runway. Morning flights on this side can be quite bright due to the sun rising over the sea.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 492 km (306 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Arrival: ELS (-33.0355987549, 27.8258991241)
Route Type: Domestic
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