About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to New Tokyo International (NRT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Tokyo. The right side delivers the more dramatic takeoff experience with Auckland's volcanic landscape and twin harbours. While the left side wins at landing for Tokyo Bay and Fuji views, the right side also tracks the Japanese coastline during descent on many approach configurations. For the full flight, right side edges ahead due to the spectacular Auckland departure scenery.
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. Auckland departures on runway 23L/23R head southwest, then aircraft typically turn northward. Right side passengers get views over the Manukau Harbour and the Waitakere Ranges as the aircraft climbs and banks north. The volcanic cones of the Auckland isthmus are also visible on the right during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Manukau Harbour, Waitakere Ranges, One Tree Hill/Maungakiekie volcanic cone, Waitemata Harbour.
What can I see when landing at New Tokyo International in Tokyo?
When landing at New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Left side for the best views. NRT approaches from the east or southeast on runway 34L/34R heading north, or runway 16 heading south. On northward approaches, left-side passengers get views over Tokyo Bay, the dense urban fabric of eastern Tokyo, and on clear days Mount Fuji appears as a distant cone to the southwest. The bay approach gives a dramatic view of the city scale. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, central Tokyo urban grid, Mount Fuji (distant, on clear days), Chiba coastal lowlands.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Tokyo?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to New Tokyo International (NRT) takes Approximately 10 to 11 hours.
What does the Auckland to Tokyo flight path pass over?
The route crosses the South Pacific Ocean with very little land visible for the majority of the flight. The Kermadec Islands may be visible far below in the early portion of the flight north of New Zealand. The route then passes over open ocean through the tropics before approaching the Ryukyu Islands chain of Japan, where small island groups including Okinawa and surrounding atolls become visible in the final hours of the flight as the aircraft descends toward Honshu.