While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach on the left provides more distinctive and visually rewarding scenery—the South Esk River valley and Launceston's urban setting are more compelling than coastal departure views. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff.
Flown DPO to LST? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Devonport to Launceston is 48 miles (77 km), a flight of about 25 minutes.
The flight path crosses inland Tasmania from northwest to southeast, passing over agricultural plains, scattered rural settlements, and low forested hills. The Tamar River valley lies to the east of the direct route. No major mountain ranges or dramatic terrain features intersect the typical flight corridor between these two airports.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DPO
RIGHTDevonport sits on the northwest coast of Tasmania. Climbing out to the east/northeast toward Launceston, the right side offers views of the Bass Strait coastline, Mersey River estuary, and the transition from coastal plains to inland terrain. The left side faces back toward open water with minimal scenic interest.
Landing at LST
LEFTApproaching Launceston from the west/southwest, the left side captures the South Esk River valley and the city's position within the surrounding hills. The right side faces toward open rural terrain with less visual interest. The river valley approach is the standard descent path and offers the most distinctive landmarks.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Devonport Airport (DPO) to Launceston (LST)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Devonport to Launceston. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach on the left provides more distinctive and visually rewarding scenery—the South Esk River valley and Launceston's urban setting are more compelling than coastal departure views. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff.
What can I see during takeoff from Devonport Airport in Devonport?
During takeoff from Devonport Airport (DPO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Devonport sits on the northwest coast of Tasmania. Climbing out to the east/northeast toward Launceston, the right side offers views of the Bass Strait coastline, Mersey River estuary, and the transition from coastal plains to inland terrain. The left side faces back toward open water with minimal scenic interest. Notable sights include: Mersey River estuary, Bass Strait coastline, Devonport urban area, inland agricultural plains to the east.
What can I see when landing at Launceston in Launceston?
When landing at Launceston (LST), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Launceston from the west/southwest, the left side captures the South Esk River valley and the city's position within the surrounding hills. The right side faces toward open rural terrain with less visual interest. The river valley approach is the standard descent path and offers the most distinctive landmarks. Notable sights include: South Esk River valley, Launceston city center, surrounding agricultural plains, low hills to the east of the city.
How long is the flight from Devonport to Launceston?
The flight from Devonport Airport (DPO) to Launceston (LST) takes about 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 48 miles (77 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Devonport to Launceston flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses inland Tasmania from northwest to southeast, passing over agricultural plains, scattered rural settlements, and low forested hills. The Tamar River valley lies to the east of the direct route. No major mountain ranges or dramatic terrain features intersect the typical flight corridor between these two airports.