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JNB → ELS
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Ben Schoeman Airport (East London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the Maloti-Drakensberg mountains in the distance and the quintessential rolling green hills and river valleys of the Eastern Cape hinterland.
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Soweto and Jo'burg South
Immediately after takeoff, view the sprawling urban landscape of southern Gauteng and the iconic FNB Stadium.
Drakensberg Escarpment
On clear days, the massive basalt peaks of the Drakensberg range are visible to the east along the Lesotho border.
Transkei Interior
Characteristic rolling hills dotted with colorful traditional homesteads as you cross into the Eastern Cape.
Indian Ocean Coastline
The deep blue of the Indian Ocean comes into view as the aircraft descends towards the Sunshine Coast.
Nahoon River Mouth
Vibrant turquoise lagoons and white sand beaches visible during the final approach into East London.
For the best experience, choose a seat well forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Afternoon flights are ideal on this side as the sun will be behind the aircraft, illuminating the green valleys of the Eastern Cape with a warm, soft light. Watch for the sudden change in terrain from the flat Highveld to the corrugated river valleys near the coast.
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Free State Highveld
A vast patchwork of agricultural fields and gold mining infrastructure stretching toward the horizon.
Karoo Fringe
The landscape shifts into more arid, scrub-filled terrain characterized by flat-topped mesas (koppies).
Great Fish River Valley
Look down over the dense thicket biomes that house some of the region's premier private game reserves.
Buffalo River Harbor
A clear view of South Africa's only river port and the industrial heart of East London during the final turn.
The right side is excellent for observing the unique 'Karoo' geology during the middle of the flight. If the aircraft lands on Runway 11 (the most common approach), you will get a great bird's-eye view of the city center and the harbor. Be aware that morning flights on this side may experience significant sun glare.
Book Hotels in East LondonDistance: 768 km (477 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: ELS (-33.0355987549, 27.8258991241)
Route Type: Domestic
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