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JCK → RCM
Which side of the plane to sit from Julia Creek Airport (Julia Creek) to Richmond Airport (Richmond)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the intricate, silvery braided channels of the Flinders River system, which provide a stark and beautiful contrast to the surrounding Mitchell Grass Downs.
Flinders River Channels
View the winding, multi-channeled paths of Queensland's longest river as it snakes through the arid landscape.
Mitchell Grass Downs
The vast expanse of rolling grasslands that transform from golden brown to vibrant green after the summer rains.
Nelia District
Spot the remote tracks and former settlement areas located north of the main highway corridor.
Braided Silt Patterns
Intricate geological patterns formed by receding floodwaters in the silty riverbeds during the dry season.
Sit on the left to capture the best photography of the river's geographic patterns. Morning flights are ideal as the low sun angle highlights the relief of the river banks and dry creek beds. During the wet season (December to March), look for 'channel country' flooding which creates an incredible inland sea effect.
Flinders Highway
Follow the 'Overlander's Way' as it cuts a perfectly straight line across the flat outback horizon.
Great Northern Railway
The vital rail link between Mount Isa and Townsville, often seen with incredibly long freight trains.
Outback Cattle Stations
Expansive pastoral properties where you can spot windmills, water tanks, and cattle tracks radiating from water holes.
Richmond Approach
As you descend into Richmond, view the landscape known for being part of Australia's prehistoric 'Inland Sea'.
The right side is best for tracking your progress via the highway and railway. In the late afternoon, this side experiences less glare, making it easier to spot cattle and station infrastructure. Keep an eye out for the white roofs of Richmond as you approach, indicating your arrival in the fossil capital of Australia.
Distance: 145 km (90 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 15 min
Departure: JCK (-20.66830062866211, 141.72300720214844)
Arrival: RCM (-20.701900482177734, 143.11500549316406)
Route Type: Domestic
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