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JNB → BLZ
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Chileka International Airport (Blantyre)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe and the iconic Mount Mulanje massif during the descent into Blantyre.
Kruger-Limpopo Frontier
Vast stretches of bushveld reaching toward the horizon of the world-famous national park system.
Eastern Highlands
The dramatic, misty peaks of the Nyanga and Chimanimani mountain ranges along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border.
Zambezi River Delta
Aerial views of the powerful Zambezi River as it flows through the Tete province toward the Indian Ocean.
Mount Mulanje
Malawi's highest peak, a massive granite inselberg that rises abruptly from the surrounding tea estates.
Blantyre Hills
The lush, green peaks of the Shire Highlands, including Michiru and Ndirande mountains, surrounding the city.
The right side is essential for seeing Mount Mulanje, which is the most spectacular geographic feature on this route. For midday flights, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Eastern Highlands. Watch for the emerald green tea plantations of Thyolo just before landing.
Waterberg Biosphere
Rolling ancient mountains and savanna landscapes in northern South Africa shortly after takeoff.
Limpopo River Crossing
The wide, meandering riverbed marking the international border between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Masvingo Granite Formations
A landscape dotted with unique granite koppies and balancing rocks characteristic of central Zimbabwe.
Cahora Bassa Reach
Distant views of the massive Zambezi River valley as the flight enters Mozambican airspace.
Kirk Range
The rugged mountain range that defines the border region between Mozambique and southern Malawi.
Sit on the left for early morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side provides a better view of the arid beauty of the Limpopo valley. Keep an eye out for the Zambezi River crossing about 75 minutes into the flight.
Distance: 1,356 km (843 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 48 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: BLZ (-15.679100036621096, 34.9739990234375)
Route Type: International
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