While the takeoff offers good strait views, the landing approach into Auckland provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Hauraki Gulf, volcanic landscape, and harbor approaches are visually distinctive. The left side captures these key features during descent.
Flown CYI to AKL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Chiayi to Auckland is 5,475 miles (8,811 km), a flight of about 10 hours.
The flight path crosses the Philippine Sea and Tasman Sea. Notable features include the Luzon Strait region (visible early in flight), the vast open Pacific Ocean for the majority of the journey, and the approach to New Zealand's North Island with the Bay of Plenty and Hauraki Gulf visible before landing. The route typically passes east of the Philippines and south of Micronesia, though these remain beyond the horizon at cruising altitude.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from CYI
RIGHTRight side captures the Taiwan Strait and the western coast of Taiwan as the aircraft climbs southwestward. You'll see the coastal plains and the Chiayi area receding, with the strait opening up to the west.

Landing at AKL
LEFTLeft side provides views of New Zealand's North Island as you approach Auckland from the northeast. You'll see the Hauraki Gulf, coastal inlets, and the volcanic landscape surrounding Auckland during descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Chiayi (CYI) to Auckland International (AKL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Chiayi to Auckland. While the takeoff offers good strait views, the landing approach into Auckland provides more dramatic and varied scenery—the Hauraki Gulf, volcanic landscape, and harbor approaches are visually distinctive. The left side captures these key features during descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Chiayi in Chiayi?
During takeoff from Chiayi (CYI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Taiwan Strait and the western coast of Taiwan as the aircraft climbs southwestward. You'll see the coastal plains and the Chiayi area receding, with the strait opening up to the west. Notable sights include: Taiwan Strait, Chiayi coastal plains, western Taiwan coastline, Penghu Islands (visible as small formations in the strait).
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 provides views of New Zealand's North Island as you approach Auckland from the northeast. You'll see the Hauraki Gulf, coastal inlets, and the volcanic landscape surrounding Auckland during descent. Notable sights include: Hauraki Gulf, Waitemata Harbour, Auckland's volcanic cones (Rangitoto Island, Mount Eden area), Coromandel Peninsula.
How long is the flight from Chiayi to Auckland?
The flight from Chiayi (CYI) to Auckland International (AKL) takes about 10 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,475 miles (8,811 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Chiayi to Auckland flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Philippine Sea and Tasman Sea. Notable features include the Luzon Strait region (visible early in flight), the vast open Pacific Ocean for the majority of the journey, and the approach to New Zealand's North Island with the Bay of Plenty and Hauraki Gulf visible before landing. The route typically passes east of the Philippines and south of Micronesia, though these remain beyond the horizon at cruising altitude.