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MAG → VAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Madang Airport (Madang) to Vanimo Airport (Vanimo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic and diverse topography of Papua New Guinea's northern coast, including the iconic Sepik River and rugged mountain ranges.
Adelbert Range
Dramatic, cloud-shrouded peaks rising shortly after departure from Madang.
Sepik River Basin
The intricate, serpentine meanders of one of the world's great rivers cutting through vast floodplains.
Prince Alexander Mountains
Dense, prehistoric rainforest canopies covering steep ridges south of Wewak.
Sissano Lagoon
A large coastal lagoon near Aitape, known for its significant geological history and beauty.
Bewani Mountains
Rugged limestone formations that dominate the skyline as you approach the West Sepik region.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Sepik River's incredible oxbow lakes. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the heavy afternoon cumulus clouds that often obscure the mountain peaks. Keep your camera ready about mid-flight for the river transition.
Karkar Island
A massive, active volcanic island visible in the Bismarck Sea shortly after takeoff.
Wewak Peninsula
Bird's-eye views of the white sand beaches and coral reefs surrounding Wewak.
Schouten Islands
A chain of small volcanic islands dotting the northern horizon during the middle of the flight.
Aitape Coastline
Crystal clear turquoise waters and fringing reefs visible along the shoreline near Aitape.
The right side is best for ocean lovers and those interested in spotting remote volcanic islands. It generally offers smoother lighting conditions in the afternoon when the sun is to the south. Look for the distinct turquoise rings of coral reefs near the shoreline.
Distance: 571 km (355 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: MAG (-5.20707988739, 145.789001465)
Arrival: VAI (-2.6926, 141.3028)
Route Type: Domestic
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