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JNB → RUN
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Roland Garros Airport (St.-denis)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point of the South African escarpment, the Mozambique coast, and a beautiful approach into Reunion's northern shoreline.
Gauteng Urban Sprawl
Aerial views of Pretoria's grid and the industrial heartland of South Africa shortly after takeoff.
Mpumalanga Escarpment
Dramatic drop-offs where the Highveld meets the Lowveld, including views near the Blyde River Canyon.
Kruger National Park
Vast stretches of savannah bushveld home to Africa's iconic wildlife, visible as you head toward the coast.
Maputo Bay
The sparkling waters of the Mozambican capital and the surrounding coastal wetlands.
Madagascar Highlands
The unique red earth and terraced rice paddies of central Madagascar's rugged interior.
Saint-Denis Coastline
Clear views of the coral reefs and the northern urban landscape of Reunion during the final descent.
For the best experience, book a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On morning departures, the left side faces north, which reduces direct sunlight glare, making it easier to photograph the Drakensberg mountains. During the approach to RUN, the pilot usually follows the northern coast, providing an excellent view of the coastal road and turquoise lagoons.
The Highveld
Expansive golden grasslands and agricultural patterns of the South African interior.
Eswatini Highlands
Rolling green hills and mountainous terrain of the Kingdom of Eswatini to the south.
Indian Ocean Horizon
Endless deep blue vistas as you cross the Mozambique Channel toward Madagascar.
Southern Madagascar
Arid, rugged landscapes and the isolated southern coastline of the 'Great Red Island'.
Piton des Neiges
The massive volcanic peak of Reunion Island rising above the clouds during the approach.
The right side is ideal for catching a glimpse of the volcanic peaks of Reunion's interior if the flight path approaches from the south. Note that on morning flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft for much of the journey, so keep your window shade down during the ocean crossing to keep the cabin cool. This side is also better for spotting the Eswatini border region.
Distance: 2,835 km (1,762 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 47 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: RUN (-20.88710021972656, 55.51029968261719)
Route Type: International
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