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JNB → LBV
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Libreville Leon M'ba International Airport (Libreville)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular transition from the high-altitude plateaus of South Africa to the striking Atlantic coastline of Angola and the Gulf of Guinea.
Johannesburg Sprawl
Aerial views of the 'City of Gold' and the historic mine dumps of the Witwatersrand immediately after takeoff.
Kalahari Desert
Witness the vast, reddish-orange sands and unique dune formations of the Kalahari Basin across Botswana.
Atlantic Ocean
As the route turns north-northwest, the deep blue of the Atlantic meets the rugged Angolan coastline.
Luanda Cityscape
Often visible during the mid-flight phase, showcasing the rapidly growing capital of Angola and its harbor.
Estuaire du Gabon
Stunning coastal views of the Gabon Estuary and the Atlantic beaches during the final descent into Libreville.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while capturing the coastline. This side is also superior for sunset views if flying on a late afternoon schedule. Look out for the dramatic 'Skeleton Coast' transition as you leave the arid zones for the tropical north.
Pretoria Landmarks
Distant views of the Union Buildings and the administrative heart of South Africa shortly after departure.
Bie Plateau
The high central plateau of Angola, featuring rugged terrain and deep river valleys carved into the landscape.
Congo Basin Rainforest
Fly over the southern edge of the world's second-largest rainforest, appearing as an endless emerald carpet.
Ogooué River
The winding, massive river systems of Gabon cutting through dense jungle as you approach the equator.
The right side is ideal for travelers interested in the vast, uninhabited wilderness of Central Africa. It provides the best perspective of the dense rainforest canopy and interior river systems. Use a polarized filter for photos to cut through the tropical haze often found over the Congo Basin.
Distance: 3,581 km (2,225 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 13 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: LBV (0.458600014448, 9.4122800827)
Route Type: International
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