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GOV destination photo
CNS destination photo

GOVCNS

Which side of the plane to sit from Gove Airport (Gove) to Cairns International Airport (Cairns)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior view of the Great Barrier Reef during the descent into Cairns, as well as the turquoise waters of the Gove Peninsula upon takeoff.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏖️

Gove Peninsula Coastline

Dramatic views of Nhulunbuy's pristine white sand beaches and bauxite-rich red cliffs immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Gulf of Carpentaria

A vast crossing of deep blue waters where you can spot remote cargo ships and the occasional island outcrop.

🐊

Cape York Wetlands

Aerial perspective of the intricate mangrove systems and winding river mouths of the western peninsula.

🪸

Great Barrier Reef

Vibrant coral formations and turquoise lagoons visible as the flight approaches the Queensland coast.

🌴

Northern Beaches

A panoramic view of Palm Cove and the coast just north of Cairns during the final landing approach.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct sun glare from the north. The descent into Cairns is the highlight; keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing to capture the reef systems. In the dry season (May-Oct), visibility over the Gulf is usually exceptional.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌳

Arnhem Land Wilderness

Expansive views of the rugged, untouched eucalyptus forests and traditional indigenous lands.

💧

Mitchell River Delta

The complex network of one of Queensland's largest river systems flowing into the Gulf.

⛰️

Great Dividing Range

The ancient, rainforest-clad mountain peaks that separate the coast from the interior.

🏞️

Atherton Tablelands

The lush, green patchwork of dairy farms and volcanic craters inland from Cairns.

🚁

Barron Gorge

A glimpse of the steep, forested valley and waterfalls near the final descent into the city.

The right side offers great views of the Australian Outback's red earth and the mountainous spine of Queensland. Be aware that on afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, which can make the cabin warmer and photography more difficult due to window glare.

Top Activities in Cairns
Route Information

Distance: 1,090 km (677 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: GOV (-12.269399642899998, 136.817993164)

Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)

Route Type: Domestic

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