Right-side seats capture the dramatic Southern Alps departure from Christchurch and maintain better views during the long Pacific crossing where the sun angle favors the right side for most of the journey. The landing approach to LAX slightly favors left, but the takeoff advantage and mid-flight sun positioning give right the overall edge.
Flown CHC to LAX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Christchurch to Los Angeles is 6,891 miles (11,091 km), a flight of about 16 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the South Pacific with no significant landmasses visible for approximately 12-13 hours after leaving New Zealand. Fiji and Samoa pass well south of the typical routing. The International Date Line is crossed roughly 6-7 hours into the flight. Approaching North America, the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island, Maui, Oahu) may be visible 2-3 hours before LAX if the routing passes near them, though most trans-Pacific flights to LAX pass well north of Hawaii. The California coast becomes visible approximately 1 hour before landing, with the Channel Islands potentially visible off the coast before the final descent into the Los Angeles basin.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CHC
RIGHTChristchurch typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Right-side seats on a northbound departure offer immediate views of the Canterbury Plains spreading inland, with the Southern Alps visible to the west. A southbound departure on runway 20 gives right-side views of Lyttelton Harbour and Banks Peninsula's distinctive circular geography.
Landing at LAX
LEFTLAX typically uses runways 24L/R or 25L/R depending on wind. On approach from the southwest (standard trans-Pacific routing), left-side seats provide views of the Pacific coastline, Santa Monica Bay, and the Los Angeles basin spreading inland. You'll see the curve of the coast and urban sprawl clearly before touchdown.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Christchurch International (CHC) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Christchurch to Los Angeles. Right-side seats capture the dramatic Southern Alps departure from Christchurch and maintain better views during the long Pacific crossing where the sun angle favors the right side for most of the journey. The landing approach to LAX slightly favors left, but the takeoff advantage and mid-flight sun positioning give right the overall edge.
What can I see during takeoff from Christchurch International in Christchurch?
During takeoff from Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Christchurch typically departs runway 02 (northbound) or 20 (southbound). Right-side seats on a northbound departure offer immediate views of the Canterbury Plains spreading inland, with the Southern Alps visible to the west. A southbound departure on runway 20 gives right-side views of Lyttelton Harbour and Banks Peninsula's distinctive circular geography. Notable sights include: Lyttelton Harbour (if runway 20 departure), Banks Peninsula's Port Hills, Southern Alps/Canterbury high country, Canterbury Plains extending north toward Rangiora.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. LAX typically uses runways 24L/R or 25L/R depending on wind. On approach from the southwest (standard trans-Pacific routing), left-side seats provide views of the Pacific coastline, Santa Monica Bay, and the Los Angeles basin spreading inland. You'll see the curve of the coast and urban sprawl clearly before touchdown. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay and Pacific coastline, Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach waterfronts, Los Angeles basin urban grid extending inland, San Gabriel Mountains on the distant eastern horizon.
How long is the flight from Christchurch to Los Angeles?
The flight from Christchurch International (CHC) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes about 16 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,891 miles (11,091 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Christchurch to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the South Pacific with no significant landmasses visible for approximately 12-13 hours after leaving New Zealand. Fiji and Samoa pass well south of the typical routing. The International Date Line is crossed roughly 6-7 hours into the flight. Approaching North America, the Hawaiian Islands (Big Island, Maui, Oahu) may be visible 2-3 hours before LAX if the routing passes near them, though most trans-Pacific flights to LAX pass well north of Hawaii. The California coast becomes visible approximately 1 hour before landing, with the Channel Islands potentially visible off the coast before the final descent into the Los Angeles basin.