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VAI destination photo
MAG destination photo

VAIMAG

Which side of the plane to sit from Vanimo Airport (Vanimo) to Madang Airport (Madang)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular view of the rugged northern coastline of New Guinea, featuring the massive Sepik River delta and the dense rainforests of the Torricelli Mountains.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Torricelli Mountains

A rugged mountain range rising sharply from the coast, covered in dense, pristine tropical rainforest.

🐍

The Sepik River

One of the world's great river systems, visible as a massive, winding brown ribbon snaking through a vast green floodplain.

🌅

Murik Lakes

A complex system of mangrove-lined lagoons and saltwater lakes near the mouth of the Sepik River.

🏔️

Adelbert Range

Dramatic volcanic ridges that dominate the landscape as the flight nears the Madang province.

🌿

Ramu River Delta

The fertile coastal plains where the Ramu River meets the sea, creating a patchwork of wetlands.

The right side is the definitive choice for geography buffs. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 30-40 minutes into the flight for the meandering Sepik River. Afternoon flights can be backlit, so morning flights are significantly better for seeing the rich greens of the jungle and the sediment patterns of the river deltas.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Bismarck Sea

Expansive views of the deep blue waters and the horizon where the sea meets the Pacific sky.

🏝️

Kairiru and Mushu Islands

Prominent offshore islands near Wewak visible as lush green gems surrounded by coral reefs.

🚤

Madang Harbour

The scenic final approach over the Astrolabe Bay, showcasing one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the South Pacific.

🐠

Coastal Reef Patterns

Intricate turquoise reef systems visible along the coastline during the descent into Madang.

Sit on the left for unobstructed ocean views and to see the beautiful islands scattered along the Sepik coast. Morning flights are preferred to keep the sun on the opposite side of the aircraft, providing better lighting for photography of the turquoise lagoons.

Top Activities in Madang
Route Information

Distance: 571 km (355 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 57 min

Departure: VAI (-2.6926, 141.3028)

Arrival: MAG (-5.20707988739, 145.789001465)

Route Type: Domestic

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