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TBU → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Fua'amotu International Airport (Tongatapu) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is premier for the iconic arrival into Sydney, frequently offering spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and the city skyline during the final approach.
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Tongan Volcanic Arc
Distant views of the volcanic peaks of the Ha'apai group to the north during the initial climb out of Tongatapu.
Norfolk Island
A potential sighting of this remote, pine-covered Australian territory roughly midway through the journey.
Sydney Skyline
The quintessential aerial view of the Sydney CBD skyscrapers as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Excellent vantage point for the Harbour Bridge and Opera House if landing from the north on Runway 16R/L.
Blue Mountains
The hazy blue silhouette of the Great Dividing Range visible on the western horizon during the descent.
The right side is the high-reward choice. To maximize your chances of seeing the Opera House, hope for a northerly wind which forces a 'Runway 16' landing. Be aware that during the mid-flight crossing, the sun will be on this side for afternoon flights, so keep your window shade down periodically to avoid glare.
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Tongatapu Reefs
Stunning views of the turquoise coral lagoons and surrounding small islets immediately after departing TBU.
Tasman Sea Transition
Watch the ocean color change as you cross from the deep South Pacific into the Tasman Sea.
Cronulla & Bate Bay
Clear views of the long sandy stretches of the Sutherland Shire coastline as the plane enters the Botany Bay circuit.
Port Botany
A detailed look at the massive shipping infrastructure and container terminals just before touchdown.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Tongan archipelago during takeoff. As you approach Sydney, this side is better if the flight path tracks south of the airport, providing a great view of the Kurnell Peninsula and Botany Bay. Morning flights are ideal to keep the sun behind you.
Get eSIMs for Tonga
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 3,585 km (2,228 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 13 min
Departure: TBU (-21.241199493408203, -175.14999389648438)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: International
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