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MDK → FIH
Which side of the plane to sit from Mbandaka Airport (Mbandaka) to Ndjili International Airport (Kinshasa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the majesty of the Congo River for the entire duration of the flight, concluding with a spectacular view of the twin capitals, Kinshasa and Brazzaville, across Malebo Pool.
The Mighty Congo
Continuous views of the world's deepest river, observing its massive width and winding path toward the Atlantic.
River Archipelagos
A network of countless lush islands and shifting sandbars that characterize this stretch of the river.
Brazzaville Skyline
Clear views across the water to the capital of the Republic of the Congo, featuring the iconic Nabemba Tower.
Malebo Pool
The vast, lake-like expansion of the Congo River that separates the two closest capital cities in the world.
Kinshasa Waterfront
Aerial view of the 'Gombe' district, the administrative and commercial heart of Kinshasa, right before landing.
This is the definitive side for this route. For the best photography, choose a mid-afternoon flight when the sun is behind you, illuminating the river and the Brazzaville skyline. The descent over Malebo Pool is the scenic highlight, so keep your camera ready as soon as the descent begins.
Congo Basin Canopy
Uninterrupted views of the dense equatorial rainforest, one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth.
Ruki River Confluence
Visible shortly after takeoff, the Ruki is a major blackwater river that creates a striking color contrast where it joins the Congo.
Lake Tumba
A large, shallow lake within the Congo River basin visible to the east depending on the specific flight corridor.
Kinshasa Urban Sprawl
As the plane descends, view the massive, dense expansion of the DRC's capital city stretching toward the horizon.
Sit on the left for the best morning light as the sun rises over the rainforest. It provides an excellent perspective of the sheer scale of the Congo Basin's vegetation. Use a lens with a UV filter, as the equatorial humidity often creates a natural blue haze over the jungle.
Distance: 583 km (362 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: MDK (0.0226000007242, 18.2887001038)
Arrival: FIH (-4.38575, 15.4446)
Route Type: Domestic
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