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TSV → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Townsville Airport (Townsville) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side (Port) offers an unparalleled coastal journey, featuring the tropical Whitsunday Islands, the expansive K'gari (Fraser Island), and the iconic Sydney Harbour skyline upon arrival.
Whitsunday Islands
Clear views of the turquoise waters and white silica sands of the Whitsunday group shortly after departure.
K'gari (Fraser Island)
The world's largest sand island, visible with its unique perched lakes and vast coastal dunes.
Gold Coast Skyline
A spectacular view of the Surfers Paradise high-rises sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the canals.
Cape Byron
The easternmost point of the Australian mainland, marked by its famous white lighthouse and crashing surf.
Sydney Harbour
On the standard 'Track South' arrival, this side provides a world-class view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Book an early morning flight for the best illumination of the coastline as the sun rises over the Pacific. To see the Whitsundays, look out approximately 25-35 minutes after take-off. If the plane lands from the north (Runway 16R/L), sit on the left for the best views of the Sydney CBD.
Great Dividing Range
Continuous views of Australia's most substantial mountain range stretching along the entire flight path.
Glass House Mountains
Distinctive volcanic plugs rising abruptly from the coastal plain north of Brisbane.
Brisbane City
Aerial perspective of the Brisbane River's winding path through the CBD and suburbs.
Blue Mountains
As you descend into the Sydney basin, look west to see the hazy blue wilderness and deep sandstone gorges.
Port of Brisbane
Detailed views of the industrial shipping hubs and the mouth of the Brisbane River.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Great Dividing Range. It also provides a better view of the inland terrain and agricultural regions of New South Wales if the flight path is pushed further west due to weather.
Distance: 1,691 km (1,051 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: Domestic
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