While takeoff favors the right for mountain views, the landing experience on the left side is more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The Brisbane River's meanders and the approach over Moreton Bay provide more compelling visual interest than the departure, making left-side seats the better overall choice for this route.
Flown CBR to BNE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Canberra to Brisbane is 594 miles (956 km), a flight of about 1 hour 20 minutes.
The flight path crosses the NSW-Queensland border near the Macpherson Range and Lamington National Park (visible as elevated forested terrain). The aircraft then passes over the Scenic Rim region with its volcanic plateaus and farmland. The Brisbane Valley and Lockyer Valley appear as agricultural areas with visible field patterns before the descent into Brisbane. The Great Dividing Range runs roughly parallel to the flight path on the western side throughout the journey.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CBR
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Brindabella Range immediately west of Canberra during climb-out. CBR typically departs to the north or northeast, so right-side passengers get the best view of these mountains as they rise away from the airport.
Landing at BNE
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best approach views into Brisbane. Most arrivals use runways 01L/01R (northbound) or 19L/19R (southbound). On northbound approaches, left-side passengers see the Brisbane River's distinctive meanders and the city skyline. On southbound approaches, left seats capture Moreton Bay and its islands.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Canberra (CBR) to Brisbane International (BNE)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Canberra to Brisbane. While takeoff favors the right for mountain views, the landing experience on the left side is more dramatic and geographically distinctive. The Brisbane River's meanders and the approach over Moreton Bay provide more compelling visual interest than the departure, making left-side seats the better overall choice for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Canberra in Canberra?
During takeoff from Canberra (CBR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Brindabella Range immediately west of Canberra during climb-out. CBR typically departs to the north or northeast, so right-side passengers get the best view of these mountains as they rise away from the airport. Notable sights include: Brindabella Range (western escarpment), Lake Burley Griffin (city center reservoir), Canberra's grid-pattern suburbs spreading eastward, Black Mountain tower visible in the urban area.
What can I see when landing at Brisbane International in Brisbane?
When landing at Brisbane International (BNE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best approach views into Brisbane. Most arrivals use runways 01L/01R (northbound) or 19L/19R (southbound). On northbound approaches, left-side passengers see the Brisbane River's distinctive meanders and the city skyline. On southbound approaches, left seats capture Moreton Bay and its islands. Notable sights include: Brisbane River with multiple loops and bends, Brisbane CBD skyline, Moreton Bay with North Stradbroke Island visible on horizon, Brisbane Forest Park (D'Aguilar National Park) to the west.
How long is the flight from Canberra to Brisbane?
The flight from Canberra (CBR) to Brisbane International (BNE) takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 594 miles (956 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Canberra to Brisbane flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the NSW-Queensland border near the Macpherson Range and Lamington National Park (visible as elevated forested terrain). The aircraft then passes over the Scenic Rim region with its volcanic plateaus and farmland. The Brisbane Valley and Lockyer Valley appear as agricultural areas with visible field patterns before the descent into Brisbane. The Great Dividing Range runs roughly parallel to the flight path on the western side throughout the journey.