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NRT → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is premier for geography lovers, featuring Japan's iconic peaks, the volcanic landscapes of Micronesia, and the best angle for the Sydney Harbour approach.
Mount Fuji
Japan's iconic snow-capped peak is often visible to the west shortly after departing Narita.
Guam & Marianas
Aerial views of the US territory and the surrounding turquoise reefs of the Mariana Trench region.
Owen Stanley Range
The rugged, jungle-clad peaks of Papua New Guinea provide a dramatic mid-flight landscape.
Great Barrier Reef
The northern edges of the world's largest reef system can be seen when crossing into Australian airspace.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
The most iconic view of the Opera House and city skyline on a northern approach to SYD.
The right side is the landmark side. Watch for Mt. Fuji within the first 30 minutes of departure from NRT. During the mid-portion of the flight, the Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea offers dramatic terrain views. For the arrival into Sydney, sit on the right to capture the iconic skyline and Harbour Bridge, which are most visible when the aircraft lands from the north on Runway 16R.
Celestial Sunrise
Witness a brilliant sunrise over the vast Pacific horizon on these primarily overnight flights.
Izu Island Chain
The volcanic peaks of the Izu archipelago, including Hachijojima, are visible south of Japan.
Micronesian Atolls
Scattered coral formations and deep blue lagoons are occasionally visible through the clouds.
Byron Bay Coastline
The easternmost point of Australia and its sweeping white sand beaches appear as you cross into NSW.
Royal National Park
Dense forests and dramatic coastal cliffs are prominent on the final approach into Botany Bay.
Choose the left side for overnight flights to enjoy a serene sunrise over the open ocean. On the final descent into Sydney, the left side provides excellent views of the rugged cliffs of the New South Wales coastline and the expansive Botany Bay just before landing. If the flight approaches from the south, this side offers the best view of the coastal wilderness.
Distance: 7,832 km (4,867 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 13 min
Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: International
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