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SYD → MNL
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring an iconic departure over Sydney Harbor, a high probability of viewing the Great Barrier Reef, and the stunning symmetrical cone of Mount Mayon during the descent into the Philippines.
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Sydney Harbor
Unmatched views of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge depending on the wind-directed takeoff path.
Great Barrier Reef
Stunning aerial perspectives of the turquoise coral formations along the Queensland coastline.
Moluccas Archipelago
Small, lush volcanic islands of Indonesia scattered across the tropical sea.
Mount Mayon
The iconic, perfectly symmetrical volcano in the Bicol region during the descent into Manila.
Metro Manila Skyline
Views of the dense skyscraper clusters in Makati and Bonifacio Global City during the final approach.
Sit on the right for morning departures to get the best light on the Great Barrier Reef. This is also the best side for spotting Mount Mayon, which is a major highlight of the route; look for it about 45-60 minutes before landing. Ensure your camera is ready immediately after takeoff from SYD for the iconic harbor views.
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Blue Mountains
Deep sandstone gorges and hazy blue forests visible shortly after departure from Sydney.
The Red Centre
Vast stretches of the Australian outback showing striking red earth and dry salt pans.
Timor Sea
The deep blue transition from the Australian continent toward the Indonesian islands.
Mount Apo
The highest peak in the Philippines, located on Mindanao, often visible as you enter Philippine airspace.
Manila Bay Sunset
If arriving in the evening, this side offers front-row seats to the world-famous Manila Bay sunset.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights (typically the PR210 or QF19 schedules) to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. This side is ideal for capturing the sunset as you approach Luzon. Keep your window shade down during the mid-flight crossing of the equator to keep the cabin cool.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for PhilippinesDistance: 6,263 km (3,892 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 22 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: MNL (14.5086, 121.019997)
Route Type: International
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