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KTA → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Karratha Airport (Karratha) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views during the descent into Sydney, frequently offering a panoramic perspective of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House if the aircraft follows the common northern arrival pattern.
Nickol Bay
Aerial views of the turquoise Indian Ocean and the rugged coastline immediately after takeoff from Karratha.
Gibson Desert
Stunning vistas of red longitudinal sand dunes and the vast, uninhabited Australian interior.
Blue Mountains
The dramatic sandstone cliffs and hazy blue eucalyptus forests of the Great Dividing Range during the descent.
Sydney Harbour
Unbeatable views of the CBD, Harbour Bridge, and Opera House on a standard northern approach to Runway 16.
Northern Beaches
The golden sands and surf of Manly and the northern coastline as the plane turns toward Botany Bay.
Book a seat well forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Sydney Harbour. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the desert landscapes, while late afternoon arrivals provide a stunning 'golden hour' glow over the Blue Mountains and Sydney skyline.
Pilbara Iron Mines
Deep red open-cut mines and industrial infrastructure visible shortly after departure.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
On a southerly track, the massive white salt crusts of Australia's largest salt lake may be visible in the distance.
The Riverina
Green and gold agricultural patterns of the Murray-Darling Basin contrasting with the arid outback.
Royal National Park
Lush coastal forests and white sandstone cliffs south of Sydney visible during a southern approach.
Botany Bay
Clear views of the Kurnell Peninsula and the container ships waiting to enter Port Botany.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the sun's glare, which will be on the north/left side of the aircraft. Keep a lookout for the intricate patterns of the salt lakes in the South Australian outback roughly mid-flight.
Distance: 3,681 km (2,287 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 20 min
Departure: KTA (-20.712200164799995, 116.773002625)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: Domestic
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