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CNS → AKL
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Auckland International Airport (Auckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the Great Barrier Reef immediately after departure from Cairns and iconic sights of the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island upon arrival in Auckland.
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Great Barrier Reef
Breathtaking aerial views of the world's largest coral reef system shortly after takeoff.
Green Island
A beautiful coral cay surrounded by white sand and reef, visible within the first 10 minutes.
Coral Sea Transitions
Deep blue ocean depths contrasting with the turquoise shallows of the continental shelf.
Rangitoto Island
Auckland's youngest and largest volcanic cone, often seen during the final approach.
Auckland CBD
Panoramic views of the Sky Tower and downtown skyline if landing on Runway 23.
For the best reef views, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights provide the best lighting to penetrate the water and see coral structures. If the flight approaches Auckland from the north, you'll get a prime view of the Hauraki Gulf islands.
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Fitzroy Island
A mountainous island with lush rainforest located just off the coast of Cairns.
Fraser Island (K'gari)
Depending on the flight path, the world's largest sand island may be visible to the south.
Tasman Sea Horizon
Stunning unobstructed sunset views on afternoon departures heading southeast.
Waitakere Ranges
Dense native bushland on the western edge of Auckland visible during the descent.
Manukau Harbour
A massive natural harbor with unique sandbars, typically seen right before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It provides an excellent perspective of the rugged New Zealand west coast and the black sand beaches near Muriwai as the aircraft begins its descent into the Auckland basin.
Book Hotels in AucklandDistance: 3,619 km (2,249 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 15 min
Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Route Type: International
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