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ISA destination photo
OOL destination photo

ISAOOL

Which side of the plane to sit from Mount Isa Airport (Mount Isa) to Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer vast outback vistas, the right side provides superior views of the rugged McPherson Range, Mount Warning, and the iconic coastline of the New South Wales border upon descent into Gold Coast Airport.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Selwyn Range

Ancient, rocky outcrops and rugged terrain immediately south of Mount Isa shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

McPherson Range

Lush, rainforest-covered mountains of the Great Dividing Range including Lamington National Park.

🌋

Mount Warning (Wollumbin)

The striking core of an ancient volcano visible in the Northern NSW hinterland during the descent phase.

🚤

Tweed River Estuary

The winding waterways separating Queensland and New South Wales just before the wheels touch down.

🏄

Snapper Rocks

The world-famous surf break and the rocky headland of Point Danger visible on the final approach.

The right side is unbeatable for nature lovers. You get a direct view of the 'Green Behind the Gold' hinterland. On the standard approach to Runway 14, you will fly directly over the border, offering a perfect view of the Tweed River and Coolangatta's surf beaches. Aim for an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the coastline from behind the plane.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛏️

Mount Isa Mining Complex

Aerial view of the massive copper, silver, and zinc mine operations and the iconic 270-meter stack.

🌾

Central Queensland Plains

Vast stretches of red earth transitioning into the productive agricultural grazing lands of the interior.

🏙️

Gold Coast Skyline

A panoramic view of the Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach high-rises stretching along the northern horizon during approach.

🌊

South Stradbroke Island

Glittering views of the Gold Coast Seaway and the northern sand islands as the plane banks toward the runway.

Sit on the left if you want a clear view of the iconic Gold Coast skyscrapers during the final descent. For morning flights, this side will be in the shade, providing better conditions for photography of the desert and mining landscapes near Mount Isa.

Top Activities in Coolangatta
Route Information

Distance: 1,644 km (1,022 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min

Departure: ISA (-20.6639003754, 139.488998413)

Arrival: OOL (-28.1644001007, 153.505004883)

Route Type: Domestic

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