The left side wins on both ends: Sydney's harbor and coastline at takeoff, and the striking red MacDonnell Ranges surrounding Alice Springs on arrival, while the right side mostly faces open ocean then featureless outback during cruise.
Flown SYD to ASP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Sydney to Alice Springs is 1,255 miles (2,020 km), a flight of about 2 hours 55 minutes.
The route crosses the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, then the vast flat outback plains and scattered salt lakes of central New South Wales and the Northern Territory, with the Simpson Desert's red dune fields visible to the south before descending toward the MacDonnell Ranges.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from SYD
LEFTDeparting Sydney on South Plan (typical), aircraft head south initially before turning inland, giving left-side passengers a view of the city skyline, Botany Bay, and the harbor coastline before the turn west.
Landing at ASP
LEFTApproaching Alice Springs, aircraft typically fly a pattern that shows the MacDonnell Ranges' rugged red ridgelines flanking the town, with the left side offering the clearest view of these dramatic ridges during the descent and turn onto final for runway 12/30.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Alice Springs (ASP)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Sydney to Alice Springs. The left side wins on both ends: Sydney's harbor and coastline at takeoff, and the striking red MacDonnell Ranges surrounding Alice Springs on arrival, while the right side mostly faces open ocean then featureless outback during cruise.
What can I see during takeoff from Kingsford Smith International Airport in Sydney?
During takeoff from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Sydney on South Plan (typical), aircraft head south initially before turning inland, giving left-side passengers a view of the city skyline, Botany Bay, and the harbor coastline before the turn west. Notable sights include: Sydney CBD skyline, Botany Bay, Kurnell Peninsula, Royal National Park.
What can I see when landing at Alice Springs in Alice Springs?
When landing at Alice Springs (ASP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Approaching Alice Springs, aircraft typically fly a pattern that shows the MacDonnell Ranges' rugged red ridgelines flanking the town, with the left side offering the clearest view of these dramatic ridges during the descent and turn onto final for runway 12/30. Notable sights include: MacDonnell Ranges, Heavitree Gap, Todd River bed, Alice Springs township.
How long is the flight from Sydney to Alice Springs?
The flight from Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Alice Springs (ASP) takes about 2 hours 55 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,255 miles (2,020 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Sydney to Alice Springs flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, then the vast flat outback plains and scattered salt lakes of central New South Wales and the Northern Territory, with the Simpson Desert's red dune fields visible to the south before descending toward the MacDonnell Ranges.