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KWM destination photo
EDR destination photo

KWMEDR

Which side of the plane to sit from Kowanyama Airport (Kowanyama) to Pormpuraaw Airport (Pormpuraaw)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The flight between Kowanyama and Pormpuraaw is a short hop along the Gulf of Carpentaria's coastline. The Right Side offers a spectacular view of the intricate Mitchell River delta and the unique geological patterns of the Cape York Peninsula's western edge.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌿

Mitchell River Delta

An incredibly complex network of mangrove-lined channels and tropical wetlands.

🧂

Crystalline Salt Pans

Stunning white and grey geometric patterns formed by evaporated tidal waters.

🐊

Estuarine Tributaries

Snaking brown and green river systems that create a vein-like appearance across the landscape.

🌳

Tropical Savanna

The classic Cape York wilderness, featuring hardy scrubland and seasonal floodplains.

The right side is superior for topographical interest. For the best photography of the salt pans and river delta, a morning flight provides the best light without the haze of the afternoon heat. Watch closely during the initial climb from KWM as the Mitchell River's primary channels are most visible then.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Gulf of Carpentaria

Vast, shallow turquoise waters that stretch out towards the Northern Territory.

🏖️

Untouched Shoreline

Miles of remote, inaccessible sandy beaches that remain pristine and uninhabited.

🌅

Golden Hour Reflections

On afternoon flights, the sun reflects brilliantly off the calm Gulf waters.

Choose the left side for afternoon departures to catch the sun setting over the Gulf. The shallow coastal shelf often reveals interesting color gradients in the water ranging from pale green to deep blue. It is also the best side for spotting large marine life near the surface during the low-altitude cruise.

Top Activities in Pormpuraaw
Route Information

Distance: 67 km (42 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 7 min

Departure: KWM (-15.485600471496582, 141.75100708007812)

Arrival: EDR (-14.896451, 141.60908)

Route Type: Domestic

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