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MQP → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (Mpumalanga) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the Lowveld to the Highveld, including distant glimpses of the Panorama Route escarpment and the Pretoria skyline on the approach to Johannesburg.
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Drakensberg Escarpment
Dramatic views of the great cliff face separating the high interior plateau from the coastal lowlands.
Belfast Forests
Stunning geometric patterns of commercial pine and eucalyptus plantations near the town of Belfast.
Bronkhorstspruit Dam
A large, shimmering reservoir that serves as a major landmark before entering the Gauteng urban sprawl.
Pretoria Skyline
On a clear day, the Union Buildings and the administrative capital's skyscrapers are visible to the northwest during descent.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. Keep an eye out for the rugged 'Long Tom Pass' area shortly after takeoff. Expect turbulence when crossing the escarpment due to rising thermal air currents.
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Lowveld Granite Hills
Large granite 'koppies' and rolling hills immediately surrounding Mbombela after takeoff.
Elands Valley
The southern edge of the Drakensberg escarpment where the plateau rises sharply from the valley floor.
Highveld Power Hub
Massive cooling towers and smoke plumes of the Arnot and Hendrina power stations dotting the horizon.
Mpumalanga Farmland
A patchwork of cattle farms and maize fields stretching toward the southern horizon.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during morning flights as the sun will be behind the aircraft. Look for the massive open-cast coal mines that fuel South Africa's power grid as you cross into the Highveld region.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 298 km (185 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: MQP (-25.3831996918, 31.1056003571)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: Domestic
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