While the takeoff from Amsterdam offers pleasant Dutch landscape views, the landing approach into Auckland provides far more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with the Waitakere Ranges, Hauraki Gulf islands, and Auckland's unique geographic setting. Left-side seats capture this superior final approach experience.
Flown AMS to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Amsterdam to Auckland is 11,274 miles (18,144 km), a flight of about 18 hours.
This route typically transits over the Middle East (Persian Gulf region), Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia (possibly over Indonesia or Malaysia), and the Pacific Ocean. Notable geographic features along the path include the Himalayas and Hindu Kush (if routed via Central Asia), the Strait of Malacca, the Philippines archipelago, and the vast Pacific Ocean. The majority of the flight crosses open ocean with limited ground visibility.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AMS
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the North Sea coast and the Dutch inland waterways as the aircraft climbs eastward from Schiphol. You'll see the patchwork of polders, canals, and the distinctive flat landscape of the Netherlands receding beneath you.
Landing at AKL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Auckland. You'll see the Waitakere Ranges to the west, the Hauraki Gulf with its island chains, and the distinctive geography of Auckland's isthmus as you approach from the northwest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Schiphol (AMS) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Amsterdam to Auckland. While the takeoff from Amsterdam offers pleasant Dutch landscape views, the landing approach into Auckland provides far more dramatic and visually distinctive scenery with the Waitakere Ranges, Hauraki Gulf islands, and Auckland's unique geographic setting. Left-side seats capture this superior final approach experience.
What can I see during takeoff from Schiphol in Amsterdam?
During takeoff from Schiphol (AMS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the North Sea coast and the Dutch inland waterways as the aircraft climbs eastward from Schiphol. You'll see the patchwork of polders, canals, and the distinctive flat landscape of the Netherlands receding beneath you. Notable sights include: North Sea coastline, Markermeer lake, IJsselmeer lake, Dutch polder grid pattern.
What can I see when landing at Auckland International in Auckland?
When landing at Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Auckland. You'll see the Waitakere Ranges to the west, the Hauraki Gulf with its island chains, and the distinctive geography of Auckland's isthmus as you approach from the northwest. Notable sights include: Waitakere Ranges, Hauraki Gulf, Great Barrier Island (distant), Auckland isthmus and harbors.
How long is the flight from Amsterdam to Auckland?
The flight from Schiphol (AMS) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 18 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 11,274 miles (18,144 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Amsterdam to Auckland flight path pass over?
This route typically transits over the Middle East (Persian Gulf region), Indian Ocean, Southeast Asia (possibly over Indonesia or Malaysia), and the Pacific Ocean. Notable geographic features along the path include the Himalayas and Hindu Kush (if routed via Central Asia), the Strait of Malacca, the Philippines archipelago, and the vast Pacific Ocean. The majority of the flight crosses open ocean with limited ground visibility.