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PQQ destination photo
BNE destination photo

PQQBNE

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers unparalleled views of the Australian coastline, including the iconic Cape Byron lighthouse, the glittering Gold Coast skyline, and the sand islands of Moreton Bay.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🏖️

Solitary Islands

A chain of pristine islands and reefs scattered along the coast near Coffs Harbour.

📍

Cape Byron

Australia's most easterly point, featuring the famous white lighthouse and crashing surf.

🏙️

Gold Coast Skyline

The spectacular high-rise towers of Surfers Paradise meeting the edge of the Pacific.

🏝️

Stradbroke Islands

Expansive views of North and South Stradbroke Islands and their unique coastal lagoons.

🌊

Pacific Ocean

Deep blue vistas where you can often spot whale migrations between May and November.

The right side is unbeatable for morning flights as the sun rises over the water. For the best views of the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, sit in a window seat well clear of the wing. Keep your camera ready as you pass the New South Wales-Queensland border for the most photogenic stretch of the trip.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Great Dividing Range

Dramatic views of the ancient mountain range and lush hinterland forests stretching inland.

🚣

Clarence River

The largest coastal river in New South Wales, snaking through the landscape near Grafton.

🌋

Mount Warning (Wollumbin)

The central volcanic plug of an ancient caldera, visible as a prominent, sharp peak near the border.

🌳

Lamington National Park

Dense, subtropical rainforests and high plateaus along the McPherson Range.

🏙️

Brisbane CBD

Bird's-eye views of the river-looping city center during the final approach into BNE.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour light hitting the hinterland without ocean glare. Watch for the 'plug' shape of Mt Warning, which is the first place on mainland Australia to see the sunrise.

Top Activities in Brisbane
Route Information

Distance: 451 km (280 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: PQQ (-31.435800552399996, 152.863006592)

Arrival: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)

Route Type: Domestic

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