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PHE → BNE
Which side of the plane to sit from Port Hedland International Airport (Port Hedland) to Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the deep red Australian interior and the iconic winding patterns of the Channel Country, coupled with better lighting for photography and prime views of the Brisbane skyline on approach.
Industrial Salt Pans
Vivid geometric patterns of salt evaporation ponds near the Port Hedland coast.
Barkly Tableland
The vast, flat expanse of the semi-arid northern territory with its characteristic red soil.
Channel Country Rivers
The spectacular braided networks of the Diamantina River that come alive with color after rain.
Brisbane River and CBD
A spectacular view of the river's horseshoe bends and the city center skyscrapers on arrival.
Moreton Bay Islands
The turquoise waters and sandy shores of Moreton and Stradbroke Islands during the final approach.
The right side is highly recommended for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It provides the most consistent views of the red desert heart of Australia. Look out for the intricate 'veins' of the Channel Country about two-thirds through the flight, which are especially beautiful in the late afternoon light.
Port Hedland Jetties
View the immense industrial infrastructure used for loading iron ore onto massive bulk carriers.
Great Sandy Desert
Stunning vistas of the northern fringes of one of Australia's largest desert regions.
Mount Isa Mining District
Observe the huge stacks and open pits of one of Australia's most historic mining towns.
Glass House Mountains
A series of steep-sided volcanic plugs that dominate the landscape north of Brisbane.
Sit on the left for morning departures to see the Indian Ocean coastline clearly. It is also the best side for spotting the unique Glass House Mountains during the descent if the aircraft approaches Brisbane from the north.
Distance: 3,580 km (2,225 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 13 min
Departure: PHE (-20.3777999878, 118.625999451)
Arrival: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Route Type: Domestic
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