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AKL β VLI
Which side of the plane to sit from Auckland International Airport (Auckland) to Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the Auckland harbor and Hauraki Gulf during departure, followed by sightings of the southern Vanuatu island chain during the descent into Port Vila.
Auckland Skyline
Bird's-eye view of the Sky Tower and the WaitematΔ Harbour during the initial climb.
Rangitoto Island
The youngest and most iconic volcanic cone in the Hauraki Gulf.
Great Barrier Island
Remote and rugged island landscapes visible on the horizon to the east.
Tanna & Erromango
Distant glimpses of the southern Vanuatu islands and potential volcanic plumes from Mt. Yasur.
Efate Reefs
Stunning coral reef formations and lagoons surrounding the capital island of Efate.
Sit on the right side for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Pacific. Approximately 30-40 minutes before landing, look out for the silhouettes of the southern Vanuatu islands. During the approach to VLI, the right side typically offers a better view of the lush, tropical interior of Efate.
Waitakere Ranges
Dense native rainforest and rugged hills on the western edge of Auckland.
West Coast Beaches
Dramatic black sand beaches like Piha and Muriwai visible shortly after takeoff.
Tasman Sea
Vast expanse of deep blue water as the flight heads north-northwest.
Mele Bay
Crystal clear turquoise waters and coastal reefs just before landing at Bauerfield.
The left side is ideal for afternoon flights to minimize direct sun glare. Keep an eye out for the Kaipara Harbour shortly after takeoff, which is one of the largest enclosed harbors in the world.
Distance: 2,239 km (1,391 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 59 min
Departure: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Arrival: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Route Type: International
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