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TSV â ISA
Which side of the plane to sit from Townsville Airport (Townsville) to Mount Isa Airport (Mount Isa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the varying geological transitions, including the dramatic Porcupine Gorge and the best angle for the iconic Mount Isa mining infrastructure upon arrival.
Magnetic Island
If the flight departs toward the east before turning, enjoy views of the island's rocky shores.
Paluma Range National Park
See the mist-shrouded rainforest mountains that mark the end of the Wet Tropics.
Porcupine Gorge
Located north of Hughenden, look for the deep basalt canyons often called the 'Little Grand Canyon'.
Richmond Fossil Country
Fly over the ancient Eromanga Sea bed, world-famous for marine reptile and dinosaur fossils.
Mount Isa Mine Stacks
The best side for viewing the massive lead and copper smelter stacks, a landmark of the outback.
Selwyn Range
Rugged, ancient red rock formations that appear just before the descent into Mount Isa.
The right side is essential for seeing Porcupine Gorge (about 40 minutes in) and the massive mining operations on the final approach into ISA. Aim for a morning flight (approx. 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM) to have the sun behind the aircraft, illuminating the red earth and rocky ridges perfectly for photography.
Castle Hill & Townsville
Glimpse the iconic pink granite monolith and the structured city grid during the initial climb.
Burdekin River Basin
Witness the wide, winding paths of one of Australia's most significant river systems.
Charters Towers
Identify the historical gold-mining hub, recognizable by its heritage architecture from above.
The Flinders Highway
Track the 'Overlander's Way' road and rail corridor as it cuts through the vast interior.
Mitchell Grass Downs
Vast, undulating plains of golden grass that characterize the heart of North Queensland.
Sit on the left for early views of the southern Burdekin catchment. During winter months, the morning sun will be on this side, which can cause glare; choose a mid-afternoon flight for softer lighting on the plains.
Distance: 776 km (482 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min
Departure: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Arrival: ISA (-20.6639003754, 139.488998413)
Route Type: Domestic
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