While left offers strong takeoff scenery from Auckland, right provides superior landing views of Hokkaido's volcanic peaks and Tsugaru Strait. The landing approach compensates with more dramatic and geographically distinctive features.
Flown AKL to HKD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Auckland to Hakodate is 5,850 miles (9,415 km), a flight of about 9 hours 20 minutes.
Flight path crosses the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. Notable waypoints include the North Island of New Zealand receding southeastward, then open ocean for approximately 6 hours. As the aircraft approaches Japan, the Izu Islands and Izu Peninsula become visible on the right side during descent, followed by the Kanto Plain and Tokyo Bay region. The final approach to Hakodate crosses over Hokkaido's southwestern coast and Tsugaru Strait.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AKL
LEFTLeft side captures the Waitakere Ranges and Tasman Sea coastline immediately west of Auckland. Right side faces inland toward the Waikato plains with minimal visual interest during climb-out.
Landing at HKD
RIGHTRight side offers views of Hokkaido's volcanic landscape and Tsugaru Strait during descent into Hakodate. Left side faces the Japanese mainland interior with less distinctive features on approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to Hakodate (HKD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Hakodate. While left offers strong takeoff scenery from Auckland, right provides superior landing views of Hokkaido's volcanic peaks and Tsugaru Strait. The landing approach compensates with more dramatic and geographically distinctive features.
What can I see during takeoff from Auckland International in Auckland?
During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Waitakere Ranges and Tasman Sea coastline immediately west of Auckland. Right side faces inland toward the Waikato plains with minimal visual interest during climb-out. Notable sights include: Waitakere Ranges (forested ridge running north-south), Tasman Sea coastline with Piha and Karekare beaches, Manukau Harbour to the southwest, Auckland city sprawl receding eastward.
What can I see when landing at Hakodate in Hakodate?
When landing at Hakodate (HKD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of Hokkaido's volcanic landscape and Tsugaru Strait during descent into Hakodate. Left side faces the Japanese mainland interior with less distinctive features on approach. Notable sights include: Tsugaru Strait (body of water between Hokkaido and Honshu), Hakodate Bay with the city visible on the peninsula, Komagatake volcano (1,131 m, snow-capped peak visible from distance), Oshima Island in the strait.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Hakodate?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Hakodate (HKD) takes about 9 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 5,850 miles (9,415 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Auckland to Hakodate flight path pass over?
Flight path crosses the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean. Notable waypoints include the North Island of New Zealand receding southeastward, then open ocean for approximately 6 hours. As the aircraft approaches Japan, the Izu Islands and Izu Peninsula become visible on the right side during descent, followed by the Kanto Plain and Tokyo Bay region. The final approach to Hakodate crosses over Hokkaido's southwestern coast and Tsugaru Strait.