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LAE → DAU
Which side of the plane to sit from Nadzab Airport (Nadzab) to Daru Airport (Daru)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the rugged Central Highlands and the incredible serpentine patterns of the Fly River system during the descent.
Markham Valley
A clear view of the wide, braided Markham River immediately after takeoff from Nadzab.
Herzog Mountains
Close-up views of the jagged, jungle-clad peaks of the Herzog Range during the initial climb.
Fly River Meanders
World-class views of the incredible oxbow lakes and winding curves of the Fly River as you enter the Western Province.
Western Province Lowlands
A vast, seemingly endless carpet of untouched tropical rainforest and wetlands leading toward Daru.
Daru Island Approach
The final descent provides a great perspective of Daru Island and the nearby Torres Strait islands.
The right side is essential for seeing the Fly River, one of the world's most impressive meandering river systems. Request a window seat forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the intricate river patterns. Mid-morning flights offer the best lighting for photography of the green canopy.
Huon Gulf Coastline
Dramatic views of the coastline stretching toward Salamaua as you climb out of the Markham Valley.
Owen Stanley Range
Distal views of the massive mountain spine of Papua New Guinea, including peaks often shrouded in mist.
Gulf of Papua
As you head south, the vast expanse of the Coral Sea and the muddy deltas of the Gulf become visible.
Kikori River Delta
The complex network of waterways and mangrove forests where the Kikori River meets the sea.
Sit on the left for better views of the coastline if the flight path hugs the southern shore. Morning flights are best to avoid the heavy cloud build-up common over the Owen Stanley Range in the afternoons.
Distance: 478 km (297 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: LAE (-6.569803, 146.725977)
Arrival: DAU (-9.08675956726, 143.207992554)
Route Type: Domestic
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