Loading map...
ICN → AKL
Which side of the plane to sit from Incheon International Airport (Seoul) to Auckland International Airport (Auckland)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the premium choice for this overnight journey, offering a breathtaking sunrise over the Pacific Ocean and a more scenic approach into Auckland featuring the Hauraki Gulf islands.
Incheon Departure
Aerial views of the Incheon Grand Bridge and the industrial landscape of the Gyeonggi coast during takeoff.
Pacific Sunrise
Since most flights are overnight, the left side provides a front-row seat to the sunrise over the horizon mid-flight.
Vanuatu Archipelago
Potential sightings of remote volcanic islands and coral atolls as the flight path crosses the Melanesian region.
Hauraki Gulf
Stunning views of Waiheke Island, Rangitoto Volcano, and the emerald waters of the gulf during the descent.
Auckland Marinas
A clear view of the 'City of Sails' and its numerous harbors as the plane aligns with the runway.
Opt for a window seat well ahead of or behind the wing for unobstructed views. As these flights typically depart ICN in the evening, the first half is dark, so focus your energy on the final 3 hours. The sunrise occurs on this side roughly 2-3 hours before landing, depending on the season. During the approach to AKL, the left side usually offers the iconic view of the city skyline and Sky Tower if landing from the north.
Ryukyu Islands
Distant views of the Japanese island chain, including Okinawa, visible shortly after departing Korean airspace.
Papua New Guinea
If the flight path trends west, passengers can see the high, jagged peaks of the Owen Stanley Range.
Coral Sea Crossing
Deep blue ocean vistas where the Pacific meets the northern Australian maritime borders.
Ninety Mile Beach
The first landfall in New Zealand often reveals the long, sweeping sandy coastlines of the Far North.
Manukau Harbour
Views of the rugged west coast and the vast tidal flats of Manukau if the approach is from the south.
The right side is ideal for those who prefer to avoid the direct glare of the morning sun during breakfast service. It offers a unique perspective of the rugged New Zealand west coast and the Tasman Sea during the final approach. Keep an eye out for the distinctive black sand beaches near Piha if the flight path circles to the south of Auckland.
Distance: 9,656 km (6,000 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 22 min
Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)
Arrival: AKL (-37.0080986023, 174.792007446)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.