Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: Maputo Bay and coastline during takeoff, plus views of the Limpopo River valley and the transition from coastal Mozambique to inland South Africa during cruise. Left seats offer good landing views but miss the scenic coastal departure.
Flown MPM to JNB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Maputo to Johannesburg is 269 miles (433 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Limpopo River valley (forms Mozambique-South Africa border), transition from coastal lowlands to inland highveld plateau, scattered towns and agricultural areas in southern Mozambique and northern South Africa
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MPM
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Maputo Bay and the Indian Ocean coastline as the aircraft climbs westward. The bay's distinctive shape and the coastal city sprawl are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at JNB
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Witwatersrand ridge and Johannesburg's urban landscape during the descent approach from the east. The city's sprawling metropolitan area and surrounding highveld terrain are prominent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Maputo (MPM) to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Maputo to Johannesburg. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: Maputo Bay and coastline during takeoff, plus views of the Limpopo River valley and the transition from coastal Mozambique to inland South Africa during cruise. Left seats offer good landing views but miss the scenic coastal departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Maputo in Maputo?
During takeoff from Maputo (MPM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Maputo Bay and the Indian Ocean coastline as the aircraft climbs westward. The bay's distinctive shape and the coastal city sprawl are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Maputo Bay, Indian Ocean coastline, Maputo city grid, Inhaca Island.
What can I see when landing at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg?
When landing at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Witwatersrand ridge and Johannesburg's urban landscape during the descent approach from the east. The city's sprawling metropolitan area and surrounding highveld terrain are prominent. Notable sights include: Witwatersrand ridge, Johannesburg city center, Johannesburg's northern suburbs, Highveld grassland.
How long is the flight from Maputo to Johannesburg?
The flight from Maputo (MPM) to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 269 miles (433 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Maputo to Johannesburg flight path pass over?
Limpopo River valley (forms Mozambique-South Africa border), transition from coastal lowlands to inland highveld plateau, scattered towns and agricultural areas in southern Mozambique and northern South Africa