Loading map...

ZNE destination photo
PER destination photo

ZNEPER

Which side of the plane to sit from Newman Airport (Newman) to Perth International Airport (Perth)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior perspective of the massive open-cut mining operations in the Pilbara and the stark, white contrast of inland salt lakes against the deep red desert sands.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🚜

Mt Whaleback Mine

One of the world's largest open-cut iron ore mines, located right next to Newman, showing massive terraced excavation pits.

🏜️

Little Sandy Desert

Expansive views of the red sand dunes and ancient arid landscapes characteristic of the Australian outback.

🧂

Lake Nabberu

A large ephemeral salt lake that creates stunning white and turquoise patterns against the rust-colored earth.

🌾

Wheatbelt Mosaic

The sudden transition into the agricultural heartland of WA, featuring a geometric patchwork of gold, green, and brown fields.

🌳

Darling Scarp

The forested ridge that marks the edge of the coastal plain, offering a lush contrast to the preceding desert.

Sit on the left for morning flights (ZNE-PER) to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Pilbara's red hues. Look out for long iron-ore trains, which can be over 2km long, snaking through the landscape below.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Hamersley Range

Distant views of some of the oldest geological formations on Earth, appearing as blue-tinted ridges on the horizon.

🌫️

Lake Austin

A massive salt pan near Cue that creates a shimmering mirage effect and intricate crust patterns visible from altitude.

📉

Murchison River Basin

The winding, often dry tracks of ancient river systems carving through the Mid West scrubland.

🍇

Swan Valley

On the final approach into Perth, view the lush vineyards and winding Swan River north of the airport.

🏙️

Perth City Skyline

If landing from the north (Runway 21), you may catch a glimpse of the CBD and the Indian Ocean coastline.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Indian Ocean horizon as you descend into Perth. During winter, the landscape in the Mid West is significantly greener, offering better contrast for photography.

Top Activities in Perth
Route Information

Distance: 1,020 km (634 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 22 min

Departure: ZNE (-23.4178009033, 119.803001404)

Arrival: PER (-31.94029998779297, 115.96700286865234)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.