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MDU → POM
Which side of the plane to sit from Mendi Airport (Mendi) to Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of rugged highland karst topography, the dramatic river deltas of the Gulf, and a scenic coastal approach over the Coral Sea into Port Moresby.
Limestone Karst Terrain
Incredible 'broken-bottle' limestone formations and sinkholes unique to the Southern Highlands landscape.
Kikori River System
Massive, winding river systems carving through the dense jungle towards the Gulf of Papua.
Gulf of Papua Coastline
The dramatic meeting point of the dark jungle rivers and the vast blue waters of the Gulf.
Coral Sea Reefs
Vibrant turquoise reef patterns and small islands as the plane turns for its final approach to Jacksons.
Port Moresby Skyline
A panoramic view of the capital city, Fairfax Harbour, and the main shipping port just before landing.
The right side is the prime choice for diverse scenery. You will see the unique karst geography of the highlands before the terrain drops off to the coastal plains. As you approach Port Moresby, the plane often tracks over the ocean, providing stunning views of the reef systems. Avoid flights during the peak of the rainy season (Jan-March) if you want the best visibility of the river deltas.
Mount Giluwe
Papua New Guinea's second-highest peak and an extinct volcano visible shortly after departure from Mendi.
Southern Highlands Cordillera
Dramatic views of the central mountain ranges with deep-cut valleys and remote mountain villages.
Sogeri Plateau
A lush, mist-covered plateau area that marks the transition from the mountains to the coastal plains.
Varirata National Park
Dense green rainforest expanses and cliffs visible during the final descent phase into the capital.
Sit on the left if you prefer looking into the heart of the New Guinea Highlands. Aim for a morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the heavy convective cloud cover that usually obscures the high peaks by midday. This side is also excellent for spotting the transition from the rugged highlands to the foothills near the end of the route.
Distance: 537 km (334 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 54 min
Departure: MDU (-6.14774, 143.656998)
Arrival: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Route Type: Domestic
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