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SYD → APW
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Faleolo International Airport (Faleolo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the Sydney coastline upon departure and a spectacular perspective of the Samoan archipelago, including Savai'i and the Apolima Strait, during the final approach.
Sydney Northern Beaches
Panoramic views of the iconic Manly to Palm Beach coastline shortly after takeoff from SYD.
Lord Howe Island
Depending on the flight track, a possible glimpse of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed volcanic remnant.
Savai'i Island
A stunning view of Samoa's largest island, featuring Mount Matavanu and vast lava fields.
Apolima Strait
Clear views of the tiny, picturesque islands of Apolima and Manono nestled between the main islands.
Mulifanua Lagoons
Vibrant turquoise reef systems and white sandbars as the plane aligns for the runway at Faleolo.
For the best experience, choose an early morning departure to see the Sydney coastline illuminated by the rising sun. During the arrival phase into APW, stay alert about 20 minutes before landing to catch the volcanic silhouette of Savai'i.
Botany Bay & Cronulla
Views of the southern Sydney coastline and the deep green of the Royal National Park during ascent.
Pacific Cloudscapes
Unique tropical cloud formations and the deep blue of the South Pacific's deepest trenches.
Lau Group (Fiji)
Distant sightings of Fiji's easternmost islands depending on the specific seasonal air corridor used.
Upolu Interior
The lush, mountainous backbone of the island of Upolu as the aircraft makes its final bank.
Coastal Villages
A bird's-eye view of traditional Samoan 'fale' and villages along the southern Upolu coastline.
The right side is excellent for photography if you are flying in the late afternoon, as it avoids direct glare from the sun. It provides a great perspective of the island's mountainous interior just before touchdown.
Distance: 4,324 km (2,687 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 5 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: APW (-13.829999923706056, -172.00799560546875)
Route Type: International
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