While the takeoff from Rarotonga favors the right side, the landing approach into Sydney is significantly more scenic and iconic on the left. Sydney Harbour, the Blue Mountains, and the dramatic coastal approach make the left side the better choice for the overall journey.
Flown RAR to SYD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Avarua to Sydney is 3,098 miles (4,985 km), a flight of about 6 hours 25 minutes.
The flight crosses the Tasman Sea with no significant landmarks visible for most of the journey. Approximately 90 minutes into the flight, the aircraft passes over open ocean. As the flight approaches the Australian coast near Sydney, the Blue Mountains become visible on the western horizon roughly 30 minutes before landing. The New South Wales coastline gradually becomes visible, with the Central Coast beaches appearing first, followed by the approach to Sydney Harbour.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from RAR
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Rarotonga's volcanic interior and the fringing coral reef system as the aircraft climbs. The island's central ridge and surrounding lagoon are most visible on the right side during the typical eastbound departure.
Landing at SYD
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Sydney Harbour, the Blue Mountains to the west, and the approach path over the Tasman Sea. As the aircraft descends toward Kingsford Smith, the left side captures the iconic harbour geography and the city's western approaches.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Rarotonga International (RAR) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Avarua to Sydney. While the takeoff from Rarotonga favors the right side, the landing approach into Sydney is significantly more scenic and iconic on the left. Sydney Harbour, the Blue Mountains, and the dramatic coastal approach make the left side the better choice for the overall journey.
What can I see during takeoff from Rarotonga International in Avarua?
During takeoff from Rarotonga International (RAR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Rarotonga's volcanic interior and the fringing coral reef system as the aircraft climbs. The island's central ridge and surrounding lagoon are most visible on the right side during the typical eastbound departure. Notable sights include: Rarotonga's central volcanic ridge (Te Manga peak area), the turquoise lagoon and coral reef barrier, Avarua township on the northern coast, and the steep green slopes of the interior.
What can I see when landing at Kingsford Smith International Airport in Sydney?
When landing at Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Sydney Harbour, the Blue Mountains to the west, and the approach path over the Tasman Sea. As the aircraft descends toward Kingsford Smith, the left side captures the iconic harbour geography and the city's western approaches. Notable sights include: Sydney Harbour with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge visible, the Blue Mountains on the western horizon, the Tasman Sea coastline, and the sprawling Sydney metropolitan area.
How long is the flight from Avarua to Sydney?
The flight from Rarotonga International (RAR) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) takes about 6 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,098 miles (4,985 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Avarua to Sydney flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Tasman Sea with no significant landmarks visible for most of the journey. Approximately 90 minutes into the flight, the aircraft passes over open ocean. As the flight approaches the Australian coast near Sydney, the Blue Mountains become visible on the western horizon roughly 30 minutes before landing. The New South Wales coastline gradually becomes visible, with the Central Coast beaches appearing first, followed by the approach to Sydney Harbour.