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HLA → DUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Lanseria Airport (Johannesburg) to King Shaka International Airport (Durban)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Drakensberg mountain range and the iconic Johannesburg skyline during the initial ascent.
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Johannesburg Skyline
A panoramic view of the Carlton Centre and Ponte City Tower shortly after leaving the Lanseria airspace.
Gold Mine Tailings
The unique yellow-white mounds that define the Witwatersrand mining history are clearly visible from above.
Drakensberg Escarpment
The highlight of the trip, featuring the massive basalt walls of the Amphitheatre and the Tugela Falls in the distance.
KZN Midlands
Rolling green hills and a patchwork of mist-belt forests and dairy farms during the descent.
Durban City and Stadiums
Views of the Moses Mabhida Stadium and the city's Golden Mile during the final circling maneuvers.
The Right side is essential for seeing the Drakensberg. Aim for morning flights for the clearest air and best lighting on the mountain peaks. During winter months (June-August), look for snow on the high-altitude ridges. Choose a seat forward of the wing to ensure the engine does not block your view of the mountains about 35 minutes into the flight.
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Magaliesberg Range
These ancient mountains are visible shortly after takeoff, providing a rugged backdrop to the Gauteng landscape.
Sandton CBD
A view of the gleaming skyscrapers of Africa's richest square mile as the flight tracks southeast.
Spioenkop Dam
A large reservoir in the KwaZulu-Natal interior, known for its proximity to historic Boer War battlefields.
North Coast Beaches
Pristine stretches of the Indian Ocean coastline visible during the final descent into King Shaka.
Ideal for afternoon travel to avoid direct sun glare. This side offers the best perspective of the Sandton business district shortly after departure and provides beautiful views of the turquoise Indian Ocean if the flight approaches from the north.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 515 km (320 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 52 min
Departure: HLA (-25.9384994507, 27.926099777199997)
Arrival: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Route Type: Domestic
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