While takeoff offers coastal drama, the landing view over the Southern Alps and Banks Peninsula provides more sustained visual interest across the descent phase. The approach to Christchurch showcases New Zealand's dramatic geography more effectively than LAX departure.
Flown LAX to CHC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Los Angeles to Christchurch is 6,891 miles (11,091 km), a flight of about 16 hours 30 minutes.
Flight path crosses central Pacific with no significant landmarks for roughly 12 hours. Fiji and Samoa regions pass south of typical routing. Approaching New Zealand, the North Island's volcanic plateau and Lake Taupo region may be visible on clear days 1-2 hours before Christchurch descent. The Cook Strait separating North and South Islands is crossed during final approach phase. Southern Alps dominate the final 30 minutes of descent into Canterbury Basin.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
LEFTLAX typically departs westbound over the Pacific. Left seats face north toward the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu coastline during initial climb. Right seats see only ocean and lose the coastal geography quickly.
Landing at CHC
RIGHTChristchurch approaches from the northeast over the Canterbury Plains. Right seats face south-southeast toward the Southern Alps and Mount Cook range during descent. Left seats see only flat plains and urban sprawl with minimal visual interest.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Christchurch International (CHC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Christchurch. While takeoff offers coastal drama, the landing view over the Southern Alps and Banks Peninsula provides more sustained visual interest across the descent phase. The approach to Christchurch showcases New Zealand's dramatic geography more effectively than LAX departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. LAX typically departs westbound over the Pacific. Left seats face north toward the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu coastline during initial climb. Right seats see only ocean and lose the coastal geography quickly. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Mountains (northern backdrop), Malibu coastal cliffs, Santa Catalina Island (visible 20+ miles offshore to the southwest), Pacific coastline stretching toward Ventura County.
What can I see when landing at Christchurch International in Christchurch?
When landing at Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Christchurch approaches from the northeast over the Canterbury Plains. Right seats face south-southeast toward the Southern Alps and Mount Cook range during descent. Left seats see only flat plains and urban sprawl with minimal visual interest. Notable sights include: Southern Alps (distant but prominent on horizon), Mount Cook/Aoraki (visible on clear days 100+ miles away as white peak), Canterbury Plains (vast flat agricultural landscape), Banks Peninsula (distinctive rounded peninsula south of airport).
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Christchurch?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Christchurch International (CHC) 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 Los Angeles to Christchurch flight path pass over?
Flight path crosses central Pacific with no significant landmarks for roughly 12 hours. Fiji and Samoa regions pass south of typical routing. Approaching New Zealand, the North Island's volcanic plateau and Lake Taupo region may be visible on clear days 1-2 hours before Christchurch descent. The Cook Strait separating North and South Islands is crossed during final approach phase. Southern Alps dominate the final 30 minutes of descent into Canterbury Basin.