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PER → DCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Perth International Airport (Perth) to RAAF Base Curtin (Derby)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning and continuous view of Western Australia's dramatic coastline, transitioning from the turquoise waters of the Gascoyne to the endless white sands of Eighty Mile Beach.
Indian Ocean Coastline
Stunning views of the rugged coastline as the flight heads north, featuring pristine white beaches and turquoise lagoons.
Shark Bay & Denham
Glimpses of the World Heritage-listed area known for its unique geography and vibrant marine colors.
Port Hedland
A massive industrial landscape visible from above, featuring giant iron ore carriers and salt evaporation ponds.
Eighty Mile Beach
A breathtaking 220km stretch of white sand where the Great Sandy Desert meets the Indian Ocean.
Broome & Roebuck Bay
As the flight approaches the Kimberley, look for the deep red pindan cliffs contrasting with the bright blue bay.
Sit on the left (Window A) for coastal views. On morning flights, the sun will be behind you, providing the best lighting for photography of the ocean. Watch for the 'Staircase to the Moon' effect if flying during a full moon near Broome.
Darling Scarp
Immediately after takeoff from Perth, view the lush forest and granite outcrops of the hills region.
Pilbara Mining Hubs
Look down upon massive open-cut iron ore mines that look like giant red stepped craters from the air.
Hamersley Range
The ancient, weathered mountains of the Pilbara provide a dramatic landscape of deep gorges and red plateaus.
Great Sandy Desert
Vast, undulating sand dunes and salt lakes stretching toward the center of the Australian continent.
Fitzroy River Meanders
Near the descent into Curtin, the winding path of the Fitzroy River carves through the Kimberley landscape.
The right side (Window F) is superior for seeing the scale of Australia's outback and mining operations. This side can be quite bright in the morning; afternoon flights offer softer light for the red earth tones. Look for the massive dust clouds of mining machinery.
Distance: 1,781 km (1,107 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: PER (-31.94029998779297, 115.96700286865234)
Arrival: DCN (-17.5813999176, 123.82800293)
Route Type: Domestic
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