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AKL โ PER
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Perth International Airport (Perth)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the diverse Australian landscape, transitioning from the lush New Zealand coast to the rugged Blue Mountains, the vast arid Outback, and the iconic gold mines of Western Australia.
Waitakere Ranges
The lush green rainforests and black sand beaches of West Auckland immediately after takeoff.
Blue Mountains
The hazy blue canyons and rugged sandstone cliffs of New South Wales as you enter Australian airspace.
Salt Lakes
Brilliant white salt pans like Lake Gairdner or Lake Lefroy dotting the desert landscape like mirrors.
Kalgoorlie Super Pit
One of the world's largest open-cut gold mines, appearing as a massive, colorful scar in the Earth.
Perth CBD & Swan River
A spectacular view of the city skyline and the winding Swan River if the wind dictates a northern approach.
Expect significant glare as the sun stays on the right (northern) side for the duration of the flight. However, the geological features are far more varied here. Keep your camera ready about 45-60 minutes before landing for the Kalgoorlie Super Pitโit is a rare sight from 35,000 feet that shouldn't be missed.
Manukau Harbour
Dramatic views of Auckland's west coast and the swirling sands of the harbour entrance upon departure.
Mount Taranaki
The perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is often visible to the south as you leave the New Zealand coast.
Esperance Coastline
If the flight takes a southerly track, you may see the stunning turquoise waters and white sands of the WA south coast.
WA Wheatbelt
A patchwork quilt of agricultural fields showing deep ochre and gold hues during the descent.
Darling Scarp
The ancient ridge that marks the final descent from the plateau down into the Swan Coastal Plain.
The left side (Port) is ideal if you want to avoid direct sunlight on this westbound route, as the sun will be predominantly to the north. It offers the best views of the South Islandโs distant peaks early in the flight and provides a smoother, shaded experience for photography of the Western Australian coastline during descent.
Distance: 5,337 km (3,316 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 17 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: PER (-31.94029998779297, 115.96700286865234)
Route Type: International
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