Loading map...
TBG → HGU
Which side of the plane to sit from Tabubil Airport (Tabubil) to Mount Hagen Kagamuga Airport (Mount Hagen)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the most dramatic limestone formations in the world, including the sheer cliffs of the Hindenburg Wall and the rugged spine of the Star Mountains.
Star Mountains
Lush, razor-sharp ridges immediately visible after takeoff from Tabubil, marking the border region.
Hindenburg Wall
An immense limestone escarpment rising thousands of feet vertically, one of PNG's most iconic geological features.
Telefomin Valley
A remote, high-altitude valley home to isolated communities, visible deep within the mountain folds.
Central Cordillera Peaks
Continuous views of the jagged peaks that form the backbone of the island of New Guinea.
Mount Hagen Peaks
The volcanic peaks of the Mount Hagen range as you approach the Western Highlands.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Hindenburg Wall. Flights are almost always in the morning due to weather; the northern light provides excellent definition on the limestone cliffs. Be aware that clouds typically begin to cover the peaks by 11:00 AM, so earlier flights are significantly more scenic.
Ok Tedi Mine
One of the world's largest open-cut mines, visible as a massive tiered scar in the landscape shortly after takeoff.
Strickland River Gorges
Breathtaking views of the deep canyons and winding paths of the Strickland River system.
Mount Giluwe
The second highest mountain in PNG and an ancient shield volcano, visible to the south during the mid-flight phase.
Great Papuan Plateau
Expansive views of the dense, untouched rainforest canopy stretching toward the southern coast.
Wahgi Valley
The fertile approach into Mount Hagen, dotted with coffee plantations and traditional agricultural gardens.
The right side is superior for industrial geographers interested in the Ok Tedi operations. It also offers the best view of Mount Giluwe's unique alpine plateau. Keep your eyes peeled for the dramatic waterfalls that spill off the Great Papuan Plateau after heavy rains.
Distance: 345 km (214 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 35 min
Departure: TBG (-5.27861, 141.225998)
Arrival: HGU (-5.826789855957031, 144.29600524902344)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.