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SYD → DRW
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Darwin International Airport (Darwin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more direct view of Australia's iconic Red Centre, including the ancient ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges and the vast salt pans of Lake Eyre/Kati Thanda, which are particularly stunning at sunset.
Blue Mountains
Shortly after takeoff, view the dramatic sandstone cliffs and dense eucalyptus forests of the Great Dividing Range.
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre
Witness the mesmerizing white salt crusts or rare floodwaters of Australia's largest endorheic lake system.
MacDonnell Ranges
Observe the striking, parallel ridges of red quartzite stretching across the horizon near Alice Springs.
Tanami Desert
Vast stretches of spinifex and red sand dunes characterize this remote northern desert landscape.
Darwin River Reservoir
On final descent, view the reflective waters that provide the primary water supply for the Northern Territory capital.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the eastern sun. If the flight path is slightly more westerly, you may catch a glimpse of Uluru in the far distance about halfway through the journey. The contrasting colors of the red earth and salt lakes are best captured in the late afternoon 'golden hour'.
Sydney Skyline
Depending on takeoff direction, get a panoramic view of the CBD, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge.
Warrumbungle Range
Ancient volcanic peaks and jagged spires visible as the aircraft heads north-west across NSW.
Katherine River
Spot the winding green ribbon of water that feeds into the famous Nitmiluk Gorge system.
Litchfield National Park
Lush tropical woodlands and hidden waterfalls visible as the terrain transitions to the Top End.
Darwin Harbour
A fantastic view of the massive natural harbor and the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea during the landing pattern.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh western sun. It offers better views of the Sydney coastline immediately after departure and the sprawling mangroves of the Northern Territory coast as you approach Darwin. Keep an eye out for lightning storms over the Top End during the wet season (November–April).
Distance: 3,155 km (1,960 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 43 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Route Type: Domestic
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