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MQL destination photo
SYD destination photo

MQLSYD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the dramatic Blue Mountains escarpments and typically provides the iconic perspective of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD during the final approach descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌾

Riverina Farmland

Geometric patterns of irrigated agriculture and dryland wheat fields across the New South Wales interior.

🏞️

Blue Mountains National Park

Deep canyons, rugged sandstone cliffs, and the dense eucalyptus canopy of this World Heritage area.

🏘️

Western Sydney Suburbs

The sprawling urban development of Parramatta and the Greater West as the aircraft begins its final descent.

🌉

Sydney Harbour Bridge

The 'Coathanger' is frequently visible on the left during the standard arrival tracks into Kingsford Smith.

⛵

Sydney Opera House

The white sails are often visible alongside the harbour just before turning for the final runway alignment.

Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the red and orange hues of the Blue Mountains cliffs. During the 'Sydney Arrival' from the west, the left side usually gets the better view of the CBD and Harbour, especially if landing on Runway 16R or 16L.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🐍

Murray River

Witness the winding bends and green corridor of Australia's longest river shortly after departing Mildura.

🚜

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area

Vibrant green patches of orchards and vineyards contrasting against the surrounding semi-arid landscape.

⛰️

Great Dividing Range

The southern end of the range, including views toward the Southern Highlands and distant glimpses of the Snowy Mountains.

🌳

Royal National Park

The lush coastal greenery and rugged sea cliffs located just south of Sydney as the plane enters the terminal area.

🌊

Botany Bay

Wide-angle views of the historic bay and the Kurnell Peninsula during the final seconds before touchdown.

The right side is excellent for early morning flights to see the sunrise over the horizon. It offers a great view of the Murray River right after takeoff from Mildura. If the aircraft approaches from the south over the ocean, the right side provides stunning views of the coastline and the Royal National Park.

Top Activities in Sydney
Route Information

Distance: 837 km (520 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: MQL (-34.229198455799995, 142.085998535)

Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)

Route Type: Domestic

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