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TBG destination photo
UNG destination photo

TBG β†’ UNG

Which side of the plane to sit from Tabubil Airport (Tabubil) to Kiunga Airport (Kiunga)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the massive Ok Tedi Mine operations shortly after takeoff, followed by a dramatic perspective of the Star Mountains' western edge and the intricate meandering of the Alice River as the flight descends into the Kiunga lowlands.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🚜

Ok Tedi Open Pit

A spectacular view of one of the world's largest open-pit copper and gold mines.

πŸ”οΈ

Mount Fubilan

The remaining slopes of the mountain that houses the massive mining operation.

πŸ“‰

The Great Escarpment

Watch the dramatic drop-off as the plane leaves the highlands for the Southern Plains.

🐍

Alice River Meanders

The stunning, snake-like curves of the river as it winds through the flat jungle floor.

πŸ›Ά

Kiunga River Port

Industrial barges and river traffic moving ore and supplies along the Fly River system.

The right side is the 'mining side'β€”choose this for the most industrial and geological interest. As you descend, the contrast between the high-altitude mines and the vast, flat green carpet of the Western Province is most striking here. Polarized sunglasses will help cut through the tropical haze and river reflections.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Star Mountains Peaks

Dramatic limestone peaks and steep ridges that surround the Tabubil plateau.

🏘️

Tabubil Township

A bird's-eye view of the planned mining town carved into the dense jungle.

🌊

Ok Tedi River Gorge

The fast-flowing, sediment-rich river cutting through deep mountain valleys.

🌳

Cloud Forest Canopy

Incredible density of primary tropical rainforest transitioning from montane to lowland.

πŸ’§

Fly River Wetlands

Expansive swampy terrain and oxbow lakes visible during the final approach to Kiunga.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Hindenburg Wall area in the distance during initial climb. Morning flights are essential as this region is one of the wettest on Earth, with clouds usually building up by midday. Keep your camera ready immediately after wheels-up to catch the town layout.

Top Activities in Kiunga
Route Information

Distance: 94 km (58 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 min

Departure: TBG (-5.27861, 141.225998)

Arrival: UNG (-6.1257100105285645, 141.28199768066406)

Route Type: Domestic

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