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POM → GKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby) to Goroka Airport (Goroka)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers unparalleled views of the rugged Owen Stanley Range and the dramatic high-altitude peaks that define Papua New Guinea's interior geography.
Owen Stanley Range
The dramatic mountain spine of the country, featuring jagged peaks and deep, inaccessible valleys.
Mount Victoria
One of the highest points in the range, often visible as a massive, mist-shrouded landmark to the east.
Highland Cloud Forests
Spectacular views of high-altitude forests where clouds frequently nestle between the steep V-shaped valleys.
Asaro Valley Floor
The transition into the fertile Highland basins, showcasing a patchwork of gardens and coffee plantations near Goroka.
The right side is essential for seeing the most dramatic mountain terrain. Aim for a morning flight (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the heavy cloud buildup and turbulence typical of the PNG Highlands. Seats forward of the wing are best to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the peaks.
Gulf of Papua Coastline
Panoramic views of the southern coastline and the azure waters of the Coral Sea immediately after takeoff.
Serpentine River Systems
Winding, silt-heavy rivers that carve intricate paths through the dense tropical lowlands.
Endless Jungle Canopy
A vast, unbroken carpet of primary rainforest stretching west toward the Indonesian border.
Isolated Ridge Villages
Tiny clusters of traditional dwellings perched precariously on narrow mountain ridges during the descent.
Choose the left side for better views of the coastal plains and the expansive river deltas. If flying in the late afternoon, this side often benefits from softer light hitting the western slopes of the mountains.
Distance: 425 km (264 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 43 min
Departure: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Arrival: GKA (-6.0816898345900015, 145.391998291)
Route Type: Domestic
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