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RAB → CNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Tokua Airport (Tokua) to Cairns International Airport (Cairns)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers the most iconic views of the trip, specifically the volcanic landscape of Rabaul upon departure and the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef formations during the descent into Cairns.
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Rabaul Caldera
Stunning views of Mount Tavurvur and the flooded volcanic crater of Simpson Harbour immediately after takeoff from Tokua.
Duke of York Islands
A cluster of lush, low-lying tropical islands surrounded by turquoise reefs in the St. George's Channel.
Tufi Fjords
Dramatic volcanic rias or 'fjords' on the Papuan Peninsula, characterized by deep blue water cutting into emerald green cliffs.
Ribbon Reefs
Exquisite views of the northern Great Barrier Reef, showing the intricate patterns of coral and sand cays from high altitude.
Cairns Esplanade
A final look at the Cairns city coastline and the mudflats of Trinity Bay during the final approach.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh afternoon sun reflecting off the Coral Sea. This side is superior for seeing the Great Barrier Reef clearly as you approach Australia. Try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the volcanic plumes in PNG.
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New Britain Coastline
Dense, untouched tropical rainforests and rugged terrain along the southern coast of New Britain island.
Owen Stanley Range
The high, cloud-shrouded peaks of mainland Papua New Guinea visible across the Solomon Sea to the west.
Daintree Rainforest
The ancient tropical canopy of North Queensland where the world's oldest rainforest meets the sea.
Trinity Bay
Views of the coastal waters and passing boats near Port Douglas as the plane aligns for its landing path.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the setting sun illuminates the mountains of PNG and the Queensland coast. It provides a better perspective of the dense rainforest mountains of the Great Dividing Range just before landing. Use a polarizing filter on your camera to cut through the haze over the Owen Stanley Range.
Book Hotels in CairnsDistance: 1,571 km (976 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 6 min
Departure: RAB (-4.34045982361, 152.380004883)
Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Route Type: International
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