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SYD → CNS
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Cairns International Airport (Cairns)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an incredible coastal journey, featuring the Sydney skyline on departure, the Gold Coast beaches, the Whitsunday Islands, and a front-row seat to the Great Barrier Reef upon descent into Cairns.
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Sydney Harbour
On most northern departures, you get an iconic view of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the Northern Beaches.
Gold Coast Skyline
View the dramatic cluster of skyscrapers in Surfers Paradise lined against the long stretch of golden sand.
Whitsunday Islands
Look out for the stunning turquoise waters and white silica sands of the 74 islands off the coast of Airlie Beach.
Great Barrier Reef
As the flight nears Cairns, the descent often passes directly over intricate coral formations and shallow reef lagoons.
Trinity Inlet
A beautiful view of the Cairns marina and the surrounding mangroves as the aircraft aligns with the runway.
Book a window seat on the right for morning flights to see the reef in its best light. On departure from Sydney, the 'Sydney Harbour Scenic' route often favors the right side for the best city views. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best reef photos.
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Sydney Suburbs
Aerial views of the sprawling Greater Sydney area and the winding Hawkesbury River shortly after takeoff.
Great Dividing Range
Continuous views of Australia's most substantial mountain range, featuring rugged peaks and deep valleys.
Queensland Hinterland
Vibrant green agricultural lands and rural townships scattered throughout the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Atherton Tablelands
Dense, lush rainforest canopies and volcanic craters as the plane approaches the Far North Queensland region.
The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun over the ocean. It provides a better look at the inland topography and the dramatic transition from temperate forests to tropical rainforests.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 1,973 km (1,226 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 38 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Route Type: Domestic
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