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NLA → LUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (Ndola) to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Lusaka (Lusaka)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the massive open-pit copper mines upon departure from Ndola and a sweeping panorama of the Lusaka city skyline during the final approach.
Copperbelt Open-Cast Mines
Incredible views of the deep, tiered excavations and tailings dams that represent Zambia's mineral wealth.
Kafue River Meanders
The winding path of the Kafue River as it snakes through the central plains toward the west.
Kabwe Town
A clear view of the historic mining town of Kabwe, located roughly halfway through the short flight.
Lusaka City Center
As the plane banks for its final approach, you get a full view of the capital's growing skyline and busy city layout.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to avoid the glare of the eastern sun. The highlight is undoubtedly the mining landscape immediately after takeoff from Ndola; have your camera ready within the first 5 minutes. On the approach to Lusaka, the right side usually provides a better angle of the central business district skyscrapers before touchdown.
Ndola Industrial Zone
Aerial views of the sprawling industrial infrastructure that defines Zambia's Copperbelt capital.
Mulungushi Dam
A glimpse of the historic dam and reservoir, a key water source for the Central Province.
Chisamba Farmlands
Expansive commercial farming blocks showing organized agricultural patterns and irrigation circles.
Miombo Woodlands
Dense stretches of indigenous woodland that characterize the high plateau between Ndola and Lusaka.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the soft sunrise lighting over the plateau. Keep a look out for the T2 Great North Road, which often parallels the flight path. The terrain is relatively flat, so focus on the geometric patterns of the farming blocks near Chisamba for the most interesting visual detail.
Distance: 260 km (162 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: NLA (-12.998100280762, 28.66489982605)
Arrival: LUN (-15.3308000565, 28.4526004791)
Route Type: Domestic
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