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SYD → VLI
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior chance of seeing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House on departure, followed by the lush volcanic coastline and turquoise bays of Efate upon arrival in Vanuatu.
Sydney City & Harbour
On a northern departure (Runway 34L), you get an unparalleled view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge shortly after takeoff.
Northern Beaches
Aerial perspective of the coastline stretching from Manly up to Barrenjoey Headland and Palm Beach.
The Tasman Sea
A vast expanse of deep indigo water where you can often spot the wake of container ships leaving Australia.
Efate Tropical Interior
As the plane descends into Port Vila, the left side looks over the dense, verdant rainforests of central Efate.
Mele Bay
The final approach provides stunning views of the turquoise waters and the famous Hideaway Island underwater post office.
For morning flights, the sun will be behind the aircraft or to the right, providing excellent lighting for photography of the Australian coast. On arrival, the 'A' seats are best for spotting the coral reefs of Mele Bay. Request a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the Sydney skyline.
Botany Bay
Views of the industrial port and the historic Kurnell Peninsula where the First Fleet initially arrived.
Lord Howe Island
Depending on the flight path, you may see the dramatic twin peaks of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird to the east.
Southern Reefs
Spectacular views of the fringing coral reefs surrounding the southern tip of Efate island during the descent.
Port Vila Harbour
A clear view of Iririki Island and the bustling maritime activity in the main Port Vila bay just before touchdown.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the Pacific horizon, ideal for catching the light play on the water during midday flights.
The right side is excellent if the flight path takes you near Lord Howe Island, a rare UNESCO site. For the arrival into Bauerfield International, seats on the right provide a great perspective of Erakor Lagoon. Be aware that afternoon flights will have direct sunlight on this side, which can make the cabin warmer and cause glare on the windows.
Distance: 2,484 km (1,543 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 19 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Route Type: International
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