Auckland to Santiago flight path: AKL to SCL

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Santiago. The flight is almost entirely over open Pacific Ocean with little to see for 11+ hours, so the outcome hinges on the arrival: the Andes on the left during descent into Santiago are far more visually striking than the brief Auckland harbor view at departure, making left the stronger overall side.

During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing AKL on runway 23L, the aircraft climbs southwest before curving onto its transpacific track, giving right-side passengers a view back over Auckland's isthmus, the Waitemata Harbour, and the volcanic cones dotting the city before the plane turns out to open ocean. Notable sights include: Auckland City skyline, Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto Island volcanic cone, Manukau Harbour.

When landing at Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach to SCL, arriving from the north and landing southbound on runway 17, the Andes mountain range runs along the eastern side of the aircraft, giving left-side passengers a dramatic view of snow-capped peaks framing the Santiago valley during the entire descent. Notable sights include: Andes Cordillera, Cerro El Plomo, Santiago valley and city sprawl, Maipo river valley.

The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) takes 11h 50m.

The route crosses thousands of miles of open South Pacific Ocean with no landmasses along the direct path; the nearest notable feature, Easter Island, lies well north of the great-circle track and is not typically visible.