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ELS → DUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Ben Schoeman Airport (East London) to King Shaka International Airport (Durban)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular, uninterrupted views of the rugged Wild Coast and the turquoise Indian Ocean, followed by a panoramic approach over Durban's shoreline.
Hole in the Wall
The iconic rock formation near Coffee Bay, visible shortly after departing East London.
Wild Coast Cliffs
Dramatic, rugged coastline where steep cliffs drop directly into the churning Indian Ocean.
Mzimvubu River
The massive river mouth at Port St. Johns, slicing through the 'Gates' mountains.
Hibiscus Coast
A continuous string of golden beaches and seaside towns like Margate and Scottburgh.
Durban Harbor
Views of the massive container ships and the Bluff during the final descent into King Shaka.
This is the premier side for photography. Between June and November, watch the water for whale breaches or the 'Sardine Run' activity. Afternoon flights are best as the sun is behind you, illuminating the coastline perfectly.
Amathole Mountains
Distant views of the mountain range providing a dramatic backdrop to the Eastern Cape interior.
Transkei Homesteads
Rolling green hills dotted with colorful traditional rondavels and rural villages.
Oribi Gorge
Deep sandstone ravines and dense forest patches as the flight enters KwaZulu-Natal airspace.
Sugar Cane Estates
Lush green geometric patterns of vast plantations characteristic of the KZN midlands.
Sit here for a morning flight to see the landscape bathed in soft light. In winter, keep an eye out for distant snow on the highest peaks of the Drakensberg foothills far inland.
Distance: 492 km (306 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 49 min
Departure: ELS (-33.0355987549, 27.8258991241)
Arrival: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Route Type: Domestic
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