Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on both legs: Algoa Bay's distinctive curve during takeoff and the approach to Durban's coastal features during landing. The flight path itself follows the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coastline, making the right side consistently favorable.
Flight Path
The flight travels northwest along the Indian Ocean coastline. Notable features include the Mossel Bay area (around the midpoint), the Garden Route's coastal cliffs, and the transition from the Eastern Cape's drier landscape to KwaZulu-Natal's greener terrain. The coastline remains visible for much of the flight, with the ocean on the right (east) side throughout. Inland, the terrain transitions from semi-arid scrubland near Port Elizabeth to more vegetated hills approaching Durban.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Port Elizabeth (PLZ) to Durban International (DUR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Port Elizabeth to Durban. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery on both legs: Algoa Bay's distinctive curve during takeoff and the approach to Durban's coastal features during landing. The flight path itself follows the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal coastline, making the right side consistently favorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Port Elizabeth in Port Elizabeth?
During takeoff from Port Elizabeth (PLZ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Algoa Bay and the Eastern Cape coastline as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the bay's distinctive curved shoreline and the transition from Port Elizabeth's urban area to the surrounding coastal landscape. Notable sights include: Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth beachfront and harbor, Uitenhage industrial area inland, Indian Ocean coastline.
What can I see when landing at Durban International in Durban?
When landing at Durban International (DUR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Durban. You'll see the Thukela River mouth, Durban's beachfront and harbor complex, and the surrounding coastal hills as the aircraft approaches from the southwest. Notable sights include: Thukela River and estuary, Durban beachfront and harbor, Bluff headland, Indian Ocean coastline.
How long is the flight from Port Elizabeth to Durban?
The flight from Port Elizabeth (PLZ) to Durban International (DUR) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Port Elizabeth to Durban flight path pass over?
The flight travels northwest along the Indian Ocean coastline. Notable features include the Mossel Bay area (around the midpoint), the Garden Route's coastal cliffs, and the transition from the Eastern Cape's drier landscape to KwaZulu-Natal's greener terrain. The coastline remains visible for much of the flight, with the ocean on the right (east) side throughout. Inland, the terrain transitions from semi-arid scrubland near Port Elizabeth to more vegetated hills approaching Durban.