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JNB → BZV
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Maya-Maya Airport (Brazzaville)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled view of the Congo River and the unique geographical phenomenon of the twin capitals, Kinshasa and Brazzaville, as you descend into Maya-Maya Airport.
Johannesburg Highveld
Immediate views of the sprawling Sandton skyline and the northern suburbs shortly after takeoff from JNB.
Limpopo Valley
The agricultural patchwork and river systems marking the border regions of South Africa.
The Congo River
The massive, powerful expanse of the Congo River, particularly the wide section known as Malebo Pool.
Kinshasa Skyline
A clear view of the DRC's massive capital city directly across the water from your destination.
Twin Capital Approach
The rare sight of two sovereign capital cities facing each other across a river during the final descent.
The right side is essential for the iconic arrival experience. Aim for a window seat to see the scale of Kinshasa vs. Brazzaville. Late afternoon flights provide a spectacular 'glint' off the Congo River. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the rapids just south of the Malebo Pool.
Kalahari Basin
The vast, rust-colored expanses of the eastern Kalahari Desert as the flight crosses into Botswana.
Angolan Escarpment
Dramatic rising terrain and rugged ridges as the plane traverses the southern Angolan highlands.
Congo Basin Rainforest
The transition into the dense, deep green canopy of the world's second-largest tropical rainforest.
Cunene River
The winding river border between Namibia and Angola, visible during the early-middle leg of the trip.
Choose this side for softer morning light when flying northward, which reduces glare on the windows. It is excellent for observing the stark transition from arid scrubland to lush tropical forest. Look out for seasonal smoke haze from agricultural fires during the dry season (May to September).
Distance: 2,800 km (1,740 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: BZV (-4.251699924468993, 15.253000259399414)
Route Type: International
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