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SYD โ TBU
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Fua'amotu International Airport (Tongatapu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more scenic departure from Sydney, capturing the famous northern coastline, and generally provides a superior angle for viewing the coral reef systems and the island of Eua during the approach into Tongatapu.
Sydney Northern Beaches
Aerial views of Manly, Curl Curl, and Palm Beach as the aircraft turns east over the Pacific.
South Fiji Basin
Deep cobalt waters of the South Pacific, often showing distinct current patterns and cloud formations.
Eua Island
Views of Tonga's oldest and highest island, characterized by lush rainforests and steep cliffs, visible just before landing.
Northern Reef Systems
Vibrant turquoise lagoons and barrier reefs that fringe the northern coast of the Tongatapu group.
Nukuสปalofa Distant View
The capital city and its harbor can sometimes be seen in the distance depending on the specific approach path.
Select a seat in front of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. This side is better for daytime photography as it avoids the direct harsh southern sun. Watch closely in the final 15 minutes for the dramatic color change as the ocean floor rises into the Tongan shelf.
Royal National Park
The rugged sandstone cliffs and pristine beaches south of Sydney visible during the initial climb.
Pacific Horizon
Spectacular sunrise views for early morning departures and deep orange hues during late afternoon flights.
Mapu 'a Vaea Blowholes
If the flight approaches from the south, you can spot the natural fountains of water along the Houma coastline.
Fua'amotu Plantations
A bird's-eye view of the patchworked coconut and vanilla plantations that define the Tongan countryside.
On morning flights, be prepared for significant glare as you fly east-northeast. During the final descent, look for the 'Mapu 'a Vaea' blowholes along the southern coast; they appear as white plumes of spray against the dark volcanic rock.
Distance: 3,585 km (2,228 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 13 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: TBU (-21.241199493408203, -175.14999389648438)
Route Type: International
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