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AKL → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers a superior arrival experience, providing the iconic panoramic view of the Santa Monica coastline, Malibu, and the Los Angeles skyline during the final approach, while also capturing the lush Hauraki Gulf islands during departure from Auckland.
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Hauraki Gulf
Immediate views of the emerald waters and islands like Waiheke and Tiritiri Matangi shortly after taking off from Auckland.
French Polynesia Pass
Depending on the specific airway, you may catch glimpses of the distant atolls of the Tuamotu Archipelago mid-flight.
Channel Islands
A striking view of Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Islands as the aircraft transitions from the open Pacific to the California coast.
Santa Monica Bay
A classic aerial view of the Malibu coastline and the Santa Monica Pier as the plane aligns for the final descent.
Los Angeles Skyline
Clear visibility of the Downtown LA skyscrapers and the sprawling urban basin on the final approach into the 24R or 25L runways.
For the most scenic experience, book a window seat away from the wing to ensure unobstructed views of the California coast. Since this is an eastbound flight across the International Date Line, the left side generally avoids the harshest direct sunlight during the middle of the journey, making it easier to keep your window shade open.
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Rangitoto Island
A fantastic view of Auckland's most iconic volcanic cone and the Coromandel Peninsula during the initial climb.
Pacific Sunrise
Spectacular views of the sun rising over the vast Pacific horizon, especially dramatic near the equator.
Catalina Island
Excellent views of Santa Catalina Island and the luxury boats scattered across the San Pedro Channel during the descent.
Port of Long Beach
A bird's-eye view of the massive cranes and container ships at one of the world's busiest maritime gateways.
SoFi Stadium
A direct look at the ultra-modern architecture of the Hollywood Park complex just seconds before touchdown at LAX.
The right side is the 'sunrise side'—perfect for early birds who want to see the first light over the ocean. On arrival, while you miss the Santa Monica coast, you get a unique look at the heavy industry and shipping infrastructure of Southern California. Be aware that the sun may be quite strong on this side during the later stages of the flight.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 10,487 km (6,516 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 20 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: International
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