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IRG destination photo
AUU destination photo

IRGAUU

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers the most dramatic views of the dense tropical rainforests of the Iron Range and the expansive, winding networks of the Archer River system as you cross the Cape York Peninsula.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌲

Kutini-Payamu Rainforest

Aerial view of Australia's largest remaining area of lowland tropical rainforest immediately after departure from Lockhart River.

⛰️

Mount Tozer

A prominent granite peak that serves as a landmark against the lush green canopy of the Iron Range.

💧

Archer River Basin

The intricate, sprawling channels of the Archer River, which dominate the southern landscape during the mid-flight transit.

🦅

McIlwraith Range

Distal views of the rugged mountain range to the south, marking the northern tip of the Great Dividing Range.

🦜

Rokeby Wilderness

An expansive area of tropical savanna and wetlands teeming with birdlife, visible as you approach the Gulf coast.

Sit on the left for the best morning light when flying west to avoid glare. During the wet season (December–April), look for temporary waterfalls and flooded plains; during the dry season, focus on the stark contrast between the green river corridors and the drying savanna.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Lloyd Bay

Brief but stunning views of the turquoise Coral Sea and the rugged coastline as the plane climbs out of Lockhart River.

🐊

Wenlock River

One of the most biodiverse river systems in Australia, visible as a winding ribbon through the northern savanna.

🌾

Piccaninny Plains

A vast conservation area featuring a mosaic of grasslands and tropical woodlands stretching toward the horizon.

🐚

Gulf of Carpentaria Coast

The white sandy beaches and mudflats of the western coast become visible during the final descent into Aurukun.

The right side is excellent for spotting the transition from the dense eastern forests to the open northern plains. Keep an eye out for large salt pans and tidal estuaries as the plane descends into the Aurukun region, which are particularly vibrant during sunset flights.

Top Activities in Aurukun
Route Information

Distance: 183 km (114 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: IRG (-12.7869, 143.304993)

Arrival: AUU (-13.354067, 141.72065)

Route Type: Domestic

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