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MJM → FBM
Which side of the plane to sit from Mbuji Mayi Airport (Mbuji-mayi) to Lubumbashi International Airport (Lubumashi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a superior view of the diverse Congolese landscape, specifically the stunning Upemba Depression and the Lualaba River, which are the primary highlights of this south-bound route.
Search flights from MJM to FBM
Mbuji-Mayi Urban Grid
A bird's-eye view of the world's diamond capital, showing the dense residential patterns immediately after takeoff.
Lomami River Basin
Intricate drainage patterns and lush green corridors formed by the tributaries of the Lomami River.
Upemba Depression
The vast wetland system of Upemba National Park, featuring a chain of lakes including Lake Upemba and Lake Kisale.
Lualaba River
The winding upper reaches of the Congo River as it carves through the Katanga plateau.
Likasi Mining Belt
Industrial landscapes featuring deep turquoise tailing ponds and massive copper-cobalt excavation sites near Likasi.
For the best visibility of the Upemba lakes, book a morning flight to avoid the afternoon convective clouds common in the tropics. During the dry season (May to September), the air is clearer, though haze from agricultural burning can sometimes obscure distant views. Sit well ahead of or behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the river meanders.
Get eSIMs for Congo (Kinshasa)
Get eSIMs for Congo (Kinshasa)
MIBA Diamond Pits
Enormous open-pit diamond mines operated by Societe Miniere de Bakwanga visible shortly after departure.
Lubi River Valley
Dense tropical vegetation and steep river banks characteristic of the Kasai-Oriental province.
Mitumba Foothills
The rising elevation as the flight moves from the Congo Basin onto the higher Katanga Plateau.
Rural Farming Plots
Distinct geometric patches of cassava and maize fields surrounding small villages in the southern savannah.
Lubumbashi Outskirts
The sprawling industrial zones and smelting facilities on the western edge of the city during the final approach.
The right side is excellent for observing the scale of industrial mining operations near Mbuji-Mayi. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff. If flying during the late afternoon, the right side will experience significant glare from the western sun, so the left side may be more comfortable for photography.
Book Hotels in LubumashiDistance: 748 km (465 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 15 min
Departure: MJM (-6.121240139010001, 23.5690002441)
Arrival: FBM (-11.5913000107, 27.5308990479)
Route Type: Domestic
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