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UTN → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Pierre Van Ryneveld Airport (Upington) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an exceptional view of the Orange River's lush green belt immediately after takeoff, followed by the geometric beauty of Free State agriculture and the most iconic landmarks of Johannesburg during the descent.
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Orange River Green Belt
The dramatic contrast of lush vineyards and orchards hugging the riverbanks against the surrounding orange desert soil.
Bloemhof Dam
A massive body of water on the Vaal River that serves as a major waypoint and visual landmark.
Free State Crop Circles
Mesmerizing center-pivot irrigation patterns that create a patchwork of green and gold across the plains.
FNB Stadium & Soweto
The iconic 'Calabash' stadium and the sprawling urban landscape of Soweto during the final approach.
Witwatersrand Mine Dumps
The historic yellow-tinted mine tailings that define the landscape of the 'City of Gold'.
The right side is unbeatable for late afternoon flights as the setting sun reflects off the Vaal River and highlights the golden hues of the Johannesburg mine dumps. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff from Upington to catch the Orange River, and again about 15 minutes before landing for the Johannesburg skyline and stadiums.
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Kalahari Desert Fringe
The striking transition from red Kalahari sands to the more arid shrubland of the Northern Cape.
North West Mining Belt
Expansive views of open-cast mines and industrial infrastructure near Klerksdorp and Rustenburg.
Magaliesberg Range
The ancient quartz ridges of the Magaliesberg appearing on the northern horizon during the descent.
Pretoria Skyline
Distant but clear views of the Union Buildings and the capital city's urban center on northern approach paths.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. This side offers the best perspective of the changing geology from desert to highveld plateau and provides a cooler cabin experience as the sun remains on the opposite side for most of the journey.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 735 km (457 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min
Departure: UTN (-28.39909935, 21.2602005005)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: Domestic
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