The right side wins on both ends of the flight: a scenic coastal departure over Auckland's west coast and harbour, followed by a classic Hawaiian arrival past Diamond Head and Waikiki. The left side offers little beyond open ocean for nearly the entire route.
Flown AKL to HNL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Auckland to Honolulu is 4,405 miles (7,089 km), a flight of about 9 hours 10 minutes.
Open South Pacific Ocean with no landmasses along the great-circle track between New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AKL
RIGHTDeparting AKL on runway 23L, northbound Pacific flights typically bank right after takeoff, tracking out over the Manukau Harbour and northwest coastline before turning north. This puts the harbour, west coast surf beaches, and the bush-covered Waitakere Ranges on the right side during the climb.
Landing at HNL
RIGHTArrivals into HNL from the south Pacific typically curve in along Oahu's south shore before lining up on the Reef Runway, passing the iconic Diamond Head crater, Waikiki's hotel skyline, and downtown Honolulu. This coastal approach sequence is far more visually distinctive than the open-ocean view on the opposite side.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to Honolulu International (HNL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Honolulu. The right side wins on both ends of the flight: a scenic coastal departure over Auckland's west coast and harbour, followed by a classic Hawaiian arrival past Diamond Head and Waikiki. The left side offers little beyond open ocean for nearly the entire route.
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. Departing AKL on runway 23L, northbound Pacific flights typically bank right after takeoff, tracking out over the Manukau Harbour and northwest coastline before turning north. This puts the harbour, west coast surf beaches, and the bush-covered Waitakere Ranges on the right side during the climb. Notable sights include: Manukau Harbour, Waitakere Ranges, west coast black-sand beaches (Piha/Muriwai area), Auckland isthmus.
What can I see when landing at Honolulu International in Honolulu?
When landing at Honolulu International (HNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Arrivals into HNL from the south Pacific typically curve in along Oahu's south shore before lining up on the Reef Runway, passing the iconic Diamond Head crater, Waikiki's hotel skyline, and downtown Honolulu. This coastal approach sequence is far more visually distinctive than the open-ocean view on the opposite side. Notable sights include: Diamond Head crater, Waikiki Beach, downtown Honolulu skyline, Pearl Harbor.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Honolulu?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Honolulu International (HNL) takes about 9 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,405 miles (7,089 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Auckland to Honolulu flight path pass over?
Open South Pacific Ocean with no landmasses along the great-circle track between New Zealand and the Hawaiian Islands