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SYD → CBR
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Canberra International Airport (Canberra)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior as it offers the iconic Sydney CBD skyline and Harbour views on departure, followed by the geometric layout of Canberra's Parliamentary Triangle during the approach.
Sydney CBD
Panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and city skyscrapers during the initial climb.
Blue Mountains
Distant views of the hazy blue Great Dividing Range and steep escarpments to the west.
Southern Highlands
Picturesque rural landscapes featuring boutique vineyards and the town of Bowral.
Parliament House
The iconic architectural centerpiece of Canberra, clearly visible during the descent into the capital.
Lake Burley Griffin
The central man-made lake that defines the master-planned layout of the city.
The right side is the prime choice for photography. Look out for the precise circular design of Canberra's streets. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight to see the landscape illuminated by the setting sun.
Botany Bay
Aerial perspective of the historic bay and Kurnell Peninsula immediately after departure.
Royal National Park
Dense green canopies and dramatic coastal sandstone cliffs stretching south of Sydney.
Lake George
A massive, shallow endorheic lake that often appears as a grassy plain or a shimmering mirage near Canberra.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side provides excellent views of the Illawarra coastline if the flight path tracks slightly further east over the Southern Highlands.
Distance: 236 km (147 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 24 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: CBR (-35.30690002441406, 149.19500732421875)
Route Type: Domestic
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