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PKE → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Parkes Airport (Parkes) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is generally superior for this route because it provides the iconic 'Sydney Harbour' view, including the Bridge and Opera House, during the most common approach patterns into Kingsford Smith Airport.
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Parkes Radio Telescope
Shortly after departure, look north to spot 'The Dish,' a 64-meter radio telescope famously used in the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Grose Valley
Experience the dramatic vertical sandstone cliffs and deep wilderness canyons of the northern Blue Mountains.
Sydney CBD
A stunning aerial view of the skyscrapers and urban density as the flight path lines up for the coast.
Sydney Opera House
The world-renowned white sails are clearly visible against the deep blue water of the harbor.
Harbour Bridge
A perfect top-down view of the 'Coathanger' and the bustling ferries of Circular Quay during descent.
For the classic Sydney arrival, the left side is essential. If landing on Runway 16 (the most common northern approach), you will fly directly past the Harbour Bridge. Morning flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the city from the east, highlighting the architectural details of the CBD.
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Mount Panorama
As you pass Bathurst, look for the famous motor racing circuit etched into the hillside.
The Three Sisters
The most famous rock formation in the Blue Mountains is visible near Katoomba in the Jamison Valley.
Warragamba Dam
Aerial view of the massive concrete gravity dam that creates Lake Burragorang, Sydney's main water supply.
Botany Bay
During the final seconds of flight, view the historic bay where Captain Cook first landed.
Royal National Park
Look south to see the rugged coastal cliffs and secluded beaches of Australia's oldest national park.
The right side is excellent for mountain enthusiasts and motor racing fans wanting to see Mount Panorama. If the wind is blowing from the south, you might approach from over the ocean, giving right-side passengers a great view of the southern beaches and Botany Bay.
Book Hotels in SydneyDistance: 287 km (178 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: PKE (-33.131401061999995, 148.238998413)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: Domestic
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