Right-side seats capture the more dramatic scenery at both ends of the flight. The Auckland departure offers volcanic landscapes and harbour views, while the Newark approach still provides good Hudson River and Manhattan views despite being on the opposite side. The takeoff experience is more visually rewarding.
Flown AKL to EWR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Auckland to Newark is 8,815 miles (14,186 km), a flight of about 17 hours 30 minutes.
This ultra-long-haul flight typically routes across the central Pacific Ocean with minimal visible landmarks for the majority of the journey. Depending on routing, you may see the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island, Maui) if the flight passes south of Hawaii, or the California coast and Sierra Nevada mountains if routed via the US west coast. Most of the 12-14 hour Pacific crossing offers only open ocean, clouds, and occasionally distant island chains. The flight typically crosses North America at altitude where you might see the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, or Appalachian Mountains depending on the specific routing chosen by the airline.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase

Takeoff from AKL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer immediate views of Auckland's urban sprawl and the Waitemata Harbour as the aircraft climbs out over the city. You'll see the distinctive geography of Auckland's isthmus and the volcanic cones that define the landscape.

Landing at EWR
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Newark as the aircraft approaches from the northeast over New Jersey. You'll see the Hudson River, Manhattan's skyline, and the distinctive geography of the New York metropolitan area before landing.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to Newark Liberty International (EWR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Newark. Right-side seats capture the more dramatic scenery at both ends of the flight. The Auckland departure offers volcanic landscapes and harbour views, while the Newark approach still provides good Hudson River and Manhattan views despite being on the opposite side. The takeoff experience is more visually rewarding.
What can I see during takeoff from Auckland International in Auckland?
During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer immediate views of Auckland's urban sprawl and the Waitemata Harbour as the aircraft climbs out over the city. You'll see the distinctive geography of Auckland's isthmus and the volcanic cones that define the landscape. Notable sights include: Waitemata Harbour, Auckland city grid and CBD, Rangitoto Island (extinct volcanic cone in the harbour), Hauraki Gulf coastline.
What can I see when landing at Newark Liberty International in Newark?
When landing at Newark Liberty International (EWR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the descent into Newark as the aircraft approaches from the northeast over New Jersey. You'll see the Hudson River, Manhattan's skyline, and the distinctive geography of the New York metropolitan area before landing. Notable sights include: Hudson River, Manhattan skyline and East River, New Jersey urban sprawl and industrial areas, Newark Bay and surrounding waterways.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Newark?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Newark Liberty International (EWR) takes about 17 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 8,815 miles (14,186 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Auckland to Newark flight path pass over?
This ultra-long-haul flight typically routes across the central Pacific Ocean with minimal visible landmarks for the majority of the journey. Depending on routing, you may see the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island, Maui) if the flight passes south of Hawaii, or the California coast and Sierra Nevada mountains if routed via the US west coast. Most of the 12-14 hour Pacific crossing offers only open ocean, clouds, and occasionally distant island chains. The flight typically crosses North America at altitude where you might see the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, or Appalachian Mountains depending on the specific routing chosen by the airline.