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WINTSV

Which side of the plane to sit from Winton Airport (Winton) to Townsville Airport (Townsville)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer a stark look at the Queensland outback, the right side is superior for the arrival into Townsville, offering iconic views of Magnetic Island, Cleveland Bay, and the granite monolith of Castle Hill.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Jump-up Mesas

Ancient flat-topped hills rising sharply from the outback floor near Winton.

⛏️

Charters Towers

Historic gold-rush town layout visible mid-flight.

💧

Ross River Dam

The massive reservoir that serves as the primary water source for the region.

🌊

Cleveland Bay

The stunning transition from the dusty interior to the turquoise Coral Sea.

🏝️

Magnetic Island

Uninterrupted views of the island's granite peaks and secluded bays on approach.

🏔️

Castle Hill

Townsville's iconic pink granite monolith standing tall in the city center.

The right side is the clear winner for the descent. For the best experience, try to fly in the morning when the sun illuminates the red earth of the jump-ups and highlights the blue of the Coral Sea. Ensure you are looking out at least 15 minutes before landing to catch the full coastal panorama.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🦖

Dinosaur Trail

Vast prehistoric landscapes where Australia's most significant fossils are found.

🛣️

Flinders Highway

The 'Overlander's Way' road snaking through the arid interior.

⛰️

Porcupine Gorge

Distant views of deep basalt canyons and rugged sandstone cliffs.

🏘️

Northern Suburbs

The sprawl of Townsville's western residential areas as you descend.

The left side is preferable for afternoon flights as you will be facing away from the harsh western sun. Watch for the dramatic change in vegetation as you cross the Great Dividing Range, moving from sparse desert scrub to more dense tropical savanna.

Top Activities in Townsville
Route Information

Distance: 516 km (321 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: WIN (-22.36359977722168, 143.08599853515625)

Arrival: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)

Route Type: Domestic

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