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PVG destination photo
SYD destination photo

PVGSYD

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the dramatic transition from the lush mountains of Papua New Guinea to the stunning Australian coastline and the Great Barrier Reef.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
⛰️

Owen Stanley Range

The rugged, cloud-shrouded volcanic peaks and dense rainforests of central Papua New Guinea.

🪸

Great Barrier Reef

Vibrant turquoise coral formations and sand cays visible as the plane enters Australian airspace over Queensland.

🏖️

Gold Coast Skyline

The iconic high-rise strip of Surfers Paradise meeting the breaking waves of the Pacific.

🏜️

Coastal Transition

A clear view of the contrast between the lush green coastal forests and the beginning of the red Australian interior.

🏔️

Blue Mountains

Deep sandstone gorges and hazy blue eucalyptus forests visible during the descent into the Sydney basin.

The right side is best for land-based scenery. Most PVG-SYD flights are overnight; as you fly south during the morning, the sun will be on the left, meaning the right side has better lighting for photography without glare. Keep your window shade open as you pass over PNG and the Queensland coast for the best reef views.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

East China Sea

Initial views of the archipelago and busy shipping lanes shortly after departing Shanghai.

🌅

Pacific Sunrise

Breathtaking views of the sun rising over the open ocean horizon during the final hours of the flight.

🏝️

Solomon Sea Islands

Small, isolated tropical atolls and coral reefs scattered across the deep blue waters.

🏙️

Sydney Harbour

Prime views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and CBD if the flight performs a northern approach.

Sit on the left if you prioritize a peaceful sunrise over the Pacific. This side is also the 'money shot' side for the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House if the wind conditions require a landing from the north (Runway 16), which is common in clear weather.

Top Activities in Sydney
Route Information

Distance: 7,865 km (4,887 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 15 min

Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)

Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)

Route Type: International

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