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JNB → FRW
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Francistown Airport (Francistown)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Pretoria skyline and the Union Buildings during the initial climb, followed by the winding Limpopo River and the expansive Shashe Dam on final approach to Francistown.
Pretoria Skyline
Excellent views of the South African administrative capital and the historic Union Buildings.
Limpopo River
The iconic, winding river that serves as the natural international border between South Africa and Botswana.
Shashe Dam
A massive reservoir near Francistown that provides a striking blue contrast to the surrounding brown landscape.
Francistown Suburbs
A clear view of the city layout of Botswana's second-largest city during the descent.
The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun illuminates the landscape from the east. Look out for the Shashe Dam about 10 minutes before landing, as it is the most prominent landmark in the region. During winter months, the visibility is usually much higher due to the lack of summer haze.
Magaliesberg Range
One of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, visible shortly after departure from Johannesburg.
Waterberg Biosphere
Vast stretches of UNESCO-protected wilderness and rugged plateaus in the Limpopo Province.
Tuli Block Fringe
The edge of the 'Land of Giants,' where the terrain transitions into the wilder Botswana savanna.
Central District Scrub
Aerial view of the semi-arid landscapes typical of the Kalahari basin's eastern edge.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides an excellent perspective of the transition from the industrial Highveld to the wilder Bushveld. Keep an eye out for large game farms where you might spot circular watering holes.
Distance: 559 km (347 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 56 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: FRW (-21.15959930419922, 27.47450065612793)
Route Type: International
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