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LAE destination photo
DAU destination photo

LAEDAU

Which side of the plane to sit from Nadzab Airport (Nadzab) to Daru Airport (Daru)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏞️

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

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.

Top Activities in Daru
Route Information

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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