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AKL destination photo
ICN destination photo

AKLICN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior departure view of Auckland city and the stunning Hauraki Gulf, followed by potential views of the Japanese Ryukyu islands and a better angle of the Seoul metropolitan area upon arrival.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Auckland Cityscape

Unmatched views of the Sky Tower, Waitemata Harbour, and the sprawling suburbs of New Zealand's largest city immediately after departure.

🌋

Rangitoto Island

A perfect overhead look at the youngest and largest volcanic cone in the Auckland volcanic field.

🏖️

Coromandel Peninsula

The white sandy beaches and dense native forests of the Coromandel are visible as the plane turns north-northwest.

🗾

Okinawa & Ryukyu Islands

Stunning turquoise reefs and island chains of southern Japan often appear as the flight bypasses the Philippine Sea.

🌃

Seoul Metropolis

A vast urban expanse featuring the Han River and Lotte World Tower when landing on ICN's southern runways.

The right side is prime for photography during the first 15 minutes of the flight. For the best lighting on the Ryukyu Islands, a morning arrival into Seoul is ideal. Be aware that most of the mid-flight occurs over the vast Pacific Ocean, so maximize your viewing time during the first and last two hours of the journey.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Tasman Sea Coast

Glimpse the rugged black sand beaches of Muriwai and the Waitakere Ranges shortly after takeoff from Auckland.

🏝️

Melanesian Archipelagos

Aerial views of the Solomon Islands or the eastern fringes of Papua New Guinea depending on the specific air corridor.

⛰️

Taiwanese Peaks

On clear days, the high mountain ranges of eastern Taiwan are visible as the flight tracks north toward the East China Sea.

🌉

Incheon Grand Bridge

A spectacular view of one of the world's longest cable-stayed bridges connecting Yeongjong Island to the mainland during final approach.

Choose the left side for better sunset views if your flight departs in the afternoon. During the northern hemisphere winter, this side stays away from the direct glare of the morning sun when approaching Korea. Keep your window shade open during the final 20 minutes to spot the intricate island networks of the Yellow Sea.

Top Activities in Seoul
Route Information

Distance: 9,656 km (6,000 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 22 min

Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)

Arrival: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Route Type: International

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