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ZQN → SYD
Which side of the plane to sit from Queenstown International Airport (Queenstown International) to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred for its unparalleled close-up views of the Southern Alps and glaciers during the Queenstown departure, plus the high probability of seeing the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House on a northern approach into Sydney.
Search flights from ZQN to SYD
Southern Alps
A spectacular panorama of New Zealand's highest peaks, including Mt Aspiring, shortly after departure.
Glacier Country
On clear days, see the distant white expanses of the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers to the north.
Tasman Sea Coast
The rugged, wild coastline of the South Island's West Coast as the plane heads toward Australia.
Sydney Harbour
The ultimate view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge if landing from the north (Runway 16).
Sydney CBD
A bird's-eye view of the dense cluster of skyscrapers in the heart of Australia's largest city.
Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you for the best photos of the Southern Alps. For the Sydney approach, the right side is famous for the 'Harbour View' landing; however, this depends on air traffic control and wind direction. Seat yourself forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the mountains.
Book Hotels in SydneyThe Remarkables
Immediate, breathtaking views of the jagged mountain range bordering Queenstown Airport during takeoff.
Lake Wakatipu
The distinct 'S' shape of the glacial lake is visible as the aircraft climbs through the valley.
Fiordland Margins
Look south to see the dense, untouched forests of the Fiordland National Park border.
Botany Bay
On the final approach to SYD, see the massive cranes and shipping containers of Port Botany.
Great for the initial climb out of the basin to see the lake's deep blue waters. For the Sydney arrival, this side is best for seeing the southern coastal beaches and the Royal National Park if the wind is blowing from the south.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 1,939 km (1,205 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 35 min
Departure: ZQN (-45.0210990906, 168.738998413)
Arrival: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Route Type: International
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