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JNB → MTS
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Matsapha Airport (Manzini)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more dramatic view of the transitioning landscape, from the industrial Highveld coal mines to the rugged peaks of the Drakensberg escarpment and the beautiful Maguga Dam near the Eswatini border.
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Mpumalanga Coal Fields
Massive open-cast mines and power stations near Witbank and Middelburg visible shortly after takeoff.
Drakensberg Escarpment
The dramatic geographical drop where the highveld plateau meets the lowveld, offering rugged mountain views.
Maguga Dam
A stunning turquoise reservoir nestled deep within the Komati River valley as you enter Eswatini airspace.
Malolotja Nature Reserve
Sweeping views of one of Southern Africa's most important mountain wilderness areas with ancient rock formations.
Book a morning flight for the best lighting conditions on the escarpment without the afternoon haze. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes after departure for the transition from flat farmland to the jagged mountain ranges of northern Eswatini.
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East Rand Urban Sprawl
Initial views of the dense residential and industrial areas surrounding Johannesburg's eastern suburbs.
Highveld Farmlands
A vast patchwork of maize and sunflower fields that define the agricultural heartland of South Africa.
Mbabane Skyline
Views of the Eswatini capital city nestled in the Dlangeni Hills during the initial descent phase.
Ezulwini Valley
The 'Valley of Heaven' featuring lush greenery and the prominent 'Execution Rock' peak near the destination.
This side is preferable for late afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the Swazi hills. During the final approach into Matsapha, look out for the distinctive rounded granite peaks known as 'Sheba's Breasts'.
Book Hotels in ManziniDistance: 308 km (191 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 31 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: MTS (-26.52899932861328, 31.3075008392334)
Route Type: International
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