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VAI → POM
Which side of the plane to sit from Vanimo Airport (Vanimo) to Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport (Port Moresby)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the rugged New Guinea Highlands, including extinct volcanoes and the vast river deltas leading into the Gulf of Papua, culminating in a scenic approach to the capital.
Star Mountains
Views of the dramatic limestone karsts and high-altitude plateaus near the Indonesian border during the early phase of the flight.
Mount Giluwe
Look for the massive, ancient shield volcano of Mount Giluwe, characterized by its alpine grasslands and rugged peaks.
Gulf of Papua Deltas
The complex network of brown river silt mixing with blue sea water at the mouths of the Kikori and Purari rivers.
Port Moresby Harbor
Excellent views of Fairfax Harbour, Hanuabada stilt villages, and the growing skyline of the capital city during final approach.
Choose a seat in front of the wing to capture the expansive views of the Highlands. During the approach into POM, this side often provides a better perspective of the coastline and the coral reefs of the Papuan Barrier Reef.
Bismarck Sea Coastline
Aerial views of the turquoise waters and coral reefs along the northern coast of Sandaun Province shortly after takeoff.
Sepik River Meanders
Watch the incredible serpentine curves of the Sepik River as it winds through the dense tropical floodplains.
Bismarck Range
Distances views of the massive Bismarck Range, including the silhouette of Mount Wilhelm, the highest peak in Papua New Guinea.
Owen Stanley Footfalls
The lush, mist-covered eastern slopes of the Owen Stanley Range as the plane begins its descent toward the southern coast.
Morning flights are highly recommended as clouds typically build up over the central cordillera by midday. Look for the distinct change in vegetation from dense jungle to the dryer, eucalyptus-dotted hills near Port Moresby.
Distance: 996 km (619 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: VAI (-2.6926, 141.3028)
Arrival: POM (-9.44338035583496, 147.22000122070312)
Route Type: Domestic
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