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FIH → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Ndjili International Airport (Kinshasa) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the lush Congo Basin to the striking red dunes of the Kalahari Desert, often featuring spectacular sunsets on evening departures.
Bas-Congo Forest
Extensive views of the dense tropical rainforest canopy during the initial climb from Kinshasa.
Angolan Highlands
The rugged terrain and high plateaus of central Angola, offering unique geological textures.
Kalahari Sands
The iconic orange and red hues of the Kalahari Desert sands stretching toward the Namibian border.
Open-Pit Mines
Large-scale industrial mining operations visible as you enter South African airspace from the north.
Magaliesberg Mountains
Fly over one of the world's oldest mountain ranges just before the aircraft turns for its final landing sequence.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to witness the spectacular African sunset over the desert. It provides the best perspective of the Bié Plateau and the Kalahari's unique fossil riverbeds. Keep your camera ready for the Magaliesberg mountains roughly 20 minutes before landing.
Congo River Meanders
Glimpse the massive Congo River and its tributaries snaking through the landscape shortly after takeoff.
Kwango River Valley
Aerial views of the lush river basin marking the transition between forest and savanna regions.
Northern Botswana Fringes
Distant views of the greener landscapes toward the Okavango Delta region on clear days.
Salt Pan Shimmer
The distant white glint of the Makgadikgadi Pans reflecting sunlight near the Botswana border.
Sandton Skyline
A clear view of the high-rise buildings in Sandton, Africa's richest square mile, during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun and for the best views of the Johannesburg urban sprawl and Sandton skyscrapers during the descent into JNB. Watch for the dramatic color change from tropical green to arid brown as you cross into Southern Africa.
Distance: 2,776 km (1,725 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 42 min
Departure: FIH (-4.38575, 15.4446)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
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