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NLA → MNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (Ndola) to Mansa Airport (Mansa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the industrial Copperbelt mines and the winding Luapula River valley along the DRC border.
Ndola Industrial Hub
Immediate views of Zambia's industrial heartland and refinery infrastructure shortly after takeoff.
Mining Pits
Massive open-cast mines near the Chingola region are often visible along the flight path toward the border.
Congo Pedicle
A unique aerial perspective of the dense forest canopy within the DRC territory that the flight path traverses.
Luapula Meanders
The silver ribbon of the Luapula River twisting through the landscape as the aircraft approaches Mansa.
Sit on the left for the best views of the industrial-to-rural transition. For morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Luapula River's intricate bends near the border.
Mufulira Town
A clear perspective of one of Zambia's oldest mining towns and its iconic industrial landmarks.
Miombo Plateau
Sweeping views of the high-altitude woodlands characteristic of the Northern Province's geography.
Bangweulu Horizon
Distant glimpses of the vast swamp system and floodplains located to the east, best seen on very clear days.
Mansa Approach
Scenic views of the rural settlements and red-earth roads surrounding Mansa Airport during the descent.
Choose the right side if flying in the afternoon to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Keep an eye out for the vast, flat horizon where the Bangweulu wetlands begin, especially during the wet season when water levels are high.
Distance: 208 km (129 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 21 min
Departure: NLA (-12.998100280762, 28.66489982605)
Arrival: MNS (-11.13700008392334, 28.87260055541992)
Route Type: Domestic
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