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VLI → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Bauerfield International Airport (Port-vila) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft is generally superior for this route, offering a spectacular approach into Sydney that often features views of the Hawkesbury River, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House when landing from the north.
Efate Western Coastline
Enjoy views of the turquoise lagoons and coral reefs of Efate island immediately after takeoff from Port Vila.
Coral Sea Crossing
Deep blue waters of the Coral Sea dominate the middle segment of the flight, with shifting cloud patterns and occasional reefs.
Hawkesbury River
As the plane descends towards Sydney, the intricate waterways and sandstone cliffs of the Hawkesbury River come into view.
Ku-ring-gai Chase
A massive expanse of lush Australian bushland and winding inlets visible just before entering the Sydney metropolitan airspace.
Sydney CBD & Harbour
On the standard 'track-in' from the north, this side offers the iconic postcard view of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Sydney Cricket Ground
Look down to see the Moore Park sporting precinct and the dense urban grid of Sydney's inner-eastern suburbs.
For the best experience, choose a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On morning flights, the sun is behind you on this side, providing perfect lighting for photos of the Sydney skyline. Watch for the 'Botany' arrival pattern which often circles over the northern beaches.
Port Vila Harbour
Get a final look at the bustling capital of Vanuatu and the ships docked in the protected natural harbour.
Tasman Sea Horizon
Expansive views of the horizon; particularly stunning during late afternoon flights as the sun begins to set.
Northern Beaches
As the plane nears Sydney, look for the long string of golden sand beaches stretching from Palm Beach down to Manly.
Bondi Beach
A distant but recognizable view of Australia's most famous beach if the flight path tracks slightly offshore.
Botany Bay
Final approach views of the large container ships and the Kurnell Peninsula before touching down at Kingsford Smith.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun while flying southwest. It offers a great perspective of the coastline if the aircraft performs a 'U-turn' approach from the south over the ocean.
Distance: 2,484 km (1,543 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 19 min
Departure: VLI (-17.699300765991, 168.32000732422)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: International
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