Loading map...
MCV → DRW
Which side of the plane to sit from McArthur River Mine Airport (McArthur River Mine) to Darwin International Airport (Darwin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Top End's iconic wetlands, the Arnhem Land escarpment, and a stunning maritime approach into Darwin Harbour.
Search flights from MCV to DRW
Gulf Coastline
Vibrant turquoise waters and salt pans of the Gulf of Carpentaria to the north-east.
Arnhem Land Escarpment
Dramatic cliffs and ancient plateaus marking the edge of Arnhem Land.
South Alligator River
Intricate river meanders and floodplains within the boundary of Kakadu National Park.
Mary River Wetlands
Lush green plains and billabongs that teem with wildlife below.
Darwin Harbour
Sweeping views of the deep blue harbour and shipping lanes on the final approach.
Opt for a morning flight to have the sun behind you while viewing the wetlands. In the wet season (December-March), the right side offers spectacular views of lightning and storm cells over the sea. Watch for the South Alligator River's distinct 'S' bends as you cross into the Kakadu region about 40 minutes into the flight.
Book Hotels in Darwin
McArthur River Mine
View the massive scale of the lead-zinc-silver mine operations right after takeoff.
Limmen Formations
Ancient sandstone pillars and rugged terrain of the nearby National Park.
Katherine Hinterland
The winding river systems and dry savanna typical of the Northern Territory interior.
Litchfield Plateau
The high sandstone tableland that hosts some of Australia's most famous waterfalls.
Darwin Suburbs
The growing residential sprawl of Palmerston and the city's rural fringes.
The left side is best for seeing the industrial scale of the McArthur River Mine at the start. During the late afternoon, this side provides a view of the sun setting over the Timor Sea as you bank towards Darwin International Airport. Watch for the smoke from mosaic burning during the dry season (May to October).
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 718 km (446 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min
Departure: MCV (-16.4424991608, 136.083999634)
Arrival: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.