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WMX → DJJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Wamena Airport (Wamena) to Sentani International Airport (Jayapura)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic approach sequence, featuring the dramatic Baliem River Gorge and an expansive view of Lake Sentani's intricate islands and turquoise waters during the final descent.
Baliem River Gorge
The dramatic point where the Baliem River carves a massive canyon through the mountain range.
Eastern High Peaks
Distant glimpses of the massive snow-capped ranges near the Papua New Guinea border on clear days.
Lake Sentani
The highlight of the trip, showcasing a massive prehistoric lake filled with over 20 unique islands.
Yotefa Bay
Views of the sparkling Pacific coastline and the outskirts of Jayapura city during the final turn.
Request a window seat away from the wing for the best photography of Lake Sentani. As the plane circles for landing at DJJ, the right side usually provides a panoramic view of the 'S' shaped lake. Keep your camera ready immediately after the pilot announces the descent, as the transition from mountains to lake happens quickly.
Baliem Valley Floor
Bird's-eye view of the high-altitude agricultural grid and traditional Dani settlements shortly after takeoff.
Mamberamo Wilderness
Views of the dense, untouched primary rainforests that characterize the northern Papuan interior.
Jayawijaya Ridges
The jagged limestone peaks of the central cordillera stretching toward the western horizon.
Cyclops Mountains
The steep, cloud-shrouded slopes of the Cyclops Nature Reserve as the plane nears the coast.
Morning flights (before 10:00 AM) are critical as the highlands frequently develop heavy cloud cover by midday. Sit toward the rear to ensure the high-wing or low-wing configuration of the regional aircraft doesn't obstruct the view of the valley floor during the steep climb out of Wamena.
Distance: 242 km (150 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 24 min
Departure: WMX (-4.10251, 138.957001)
Arrival: DJJ (-2.5769500733, 140.5160064698)
Route Type: Domestic
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