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HTI → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Hamilton Island Airport (Hamilton Island) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic Australian landmarks, including the Whitsunday Islands on departure and the chance for a stunning view of Sydney Harbour on arrival.
Whitsunday Islands
Spectacular views of Whitsunday Island and the surrounding archipelago immediately after leaving Hamilton Island.
Fraser Island (K'gari)
Visible inland, see the world's largest sand island with its unique perched lakes and massive dunes.
Gold Coast Skyline
The high-rise cluster of Surfers Paradise stands out sharply against the coastal strip as you pass Queensland.
Hunter Valley
The patchwork of vineyards and lush green valleys of Australia's oldest wine region appear north of Sydney.
Blue Mountains
On the western horizon, see the hazy blue sandstone plateaus and deep wilderness of the Great Dividing Range.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
If the aircraft lands from the north on Runway 16, you get a world-class view of the Opera House and Bridge.
This is the premier side for photography. Request a seat toward the front or rear to avoid the wing. On the descent into Sydney, pilots often follow a path that showcases the city; the right side is most likely to see the CBD. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the mainland terrain.
Great Barrier Reef
Catch glimpses of the vibrant coral formations and turquoise lagoons shortly after takeoff from Hamilton Island.
Tasman Sea
Vast, uninterrupted views of the deep blue Pacific Ocean as the flight follows the coastline south.
Solitary Islands
A chain of small islands and reefs off the Coffs Harbour coast, often visible during the mid-flight cruise.
Port Macquarie Coast
Scenic views of the Hastings River meeting the sea and the rugged headlands of the mid-north coast.
Sydney Northern Beaches
Aerial perspective of the coastline from Palm Beach down to Manly during the final approach phase.
The left side is best for morning flights to avoid the glare of the sun. It provides a more serene, ocean-focused view. Keep an eye out for migrating whales between June and November, which can sometimes be spotted from altitude near the coast.
Distance: 1,527 km (949 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 2 min
Departure: HTI (-20.3581008911, 148.95199585)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: Domestic
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