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SYD → SCL
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (Santiago)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior perspective of the highest peaks of the Andes, including Mount Aconcagua, as well as iconic views of Sydney Harbour during departure and the Chilean Central Valley upon arrival.
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Sydney Harbour
Breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge shortly after takeoff from runway 16R/34L.
Trans-Pacific Horizon
Unobstructed views of the northern horizon, ideal for observing the transition from day to night over the vast ocean.
Chilean Coastline
The first sight of land after the long crossing, featuring the rugged cliffs and beaches of the Valparaíso region.
Mount Aconcagua
Stunning views of the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, located just north of the approach path into Santiago.
Maipo Valley
Lush green views of Chile's premier wine region and vineyards during the final descent into SCL.
For the best experience, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Since most flights arrive in Santiago in the morning, the left side benefits from the sun being behind the aircraft, providing perfectly lit views of the snow-capped Andes. If departing Sydney on a clear day, the initial climb often provides a panoramic view of the CBD.
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Botany Bay
A direct look down at the historic landing site of Captain Cook and the southern beaches of Sydney.
Aurora Australis
On winter night flights that take a southerly Great Circle route, there is a high chance of spotting the Southern Lights.
Antarctic Fringe
During extreme southerly flight paths, look out for distant icebergs or the edge of the Antarctic ice shelf.
Tupungato Volcano
A massive, prominent stratovolcano visible to the southeast of the plane during the descent into the Santiago basin.
Santiago Cityscape
A sweeping view of the Gran Torre Santiago and the dense urban sprawl of the Chilean capital.
The right side is ideal for night-sky enthusiasts. The lack of light pollution over the Southern Ocean makes it one of the best places on Earth to see the Milky Way and the Southern Cross. In winter, this is the side to be on for a chance at seeing the Aurora. During arrival, be aware that the sun may be directly in your eyes, making photography of the mountains difficult.
Book Hotels in SantiagoDistance: 11,340 km (7,046 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 20 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: SCL (-33.393001556396484, -70.78579711914062)
Route Type: International
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