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ISA → CNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Mount Isa Airport (Mount Isa) to Cairns International Airport (Cairns)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior transition from the rugged red terrain of the Outback to the lush, tropical greenery of the Atherton Tablelands and the coastal beauty of the Coral Sea.
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Mount Isa Mines
Get a direct view of the massive lead, copper, and zinc mining operations and the iconic stacks right after takeoff.
Atherton Tablelands
Observe the dramatic shift to fertile volcanic soil, crater lakes, and vibrant green dairy pastures.
Wooroonooran National Park
Fly over the high-altitude rainforests containing Queensland's highest peaks, including Mt Bartle Frere.
Trinity Inlet
A stunning view of the winding mangrove estuaries and Cairns CBD as the plane makes its final approach.
Great Barrier Reef Edge
Catch the turquoise hues of the Coral Sea and the inner reef system just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for the scenic descent into Cairns. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight when the sun is behind the aircraft, illuminating the vibrant greens of the Tablelands and the blues of the ocean. Watch for the 'Red to Green' transition approximately 40 minutes into the flight.
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Selwyn Range North
View the northern ridges of these ancient mountains shortly after departing Mount Isa.
Gulf Savannah
Vast, open plains of golden grass and low scrub typical of the remote Queensland interior.
Mitchell River Basin
Intricate patterns of seasonal riverbeds that carve through the dry landscape during the wet season.
Daintree Fringes
As you approach the coast, glimpse the southern reaches of the world's oldest rainforest.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During the descent, you may catch views of the northern beaches of Cairns if the wind dictates a northern approach (Runway 15).
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 782 km (486 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: ISA (-20.6639003754, 139.488998413)
Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Route Type: Domestic
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