Why Queenstown & Wellington Rank High For Scenic Airport Landings

Queenstown and Wellington Airports in New Zealand have both received recognition for their exceptionally beautiful landing approaches in a recent survey conducted by UK-based travel insurance provider, AllClear. The survey aimed to identify airports worldwide that offer the most visually captivating experiences for arriving passengers.

Why Queenstown & Wellington Rank High For Scenic Airport Landings

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Queenstown Airport

1) Ranking: Queenstown Airport was ranked as the second most beautiful airport landing in the world, scoring an impressive 79 out of 100 on AllClear's "eye-catching" scale. It was only surpassed by Australia's Lord Howe Island Airport.

2) Scenery: The descent into Queenstown is described as one of the world's most dramatic. Passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range on one side and the glacier-fed waters of Lake Wakatipu on the other. The combination of rugged, snow-capped mountains and the pristine lake creates a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.

3) Approach: The landing at Queenstown Airport is known to be challenging, requiring pilots to undergo specific training due to the steep descent between the surrounding mountains. This adds an element of thrill to the visual beauty.

4) Recognition: This isn't the first time Queenstown Airport has been recognized for its stunning scenery. It has consistently ranked high in various polls for the world's most scenic airport landings over the years.

Wellington Airport

1) Ranking: Wellington Airport was also featured in the AllClear survey, securing the joint 15th position with a score of 60 out of 100.

2) Scenery: While not as dramatically mountainous as Queenstown, Wellington offers its own unique visual appeal upon landing. The airport is situated on the Rongotai isthmus, a low-lying stretch of land bordered by Evans Bay in Wellington Harbour to the north and the Cook Strait to the south. This provides passengers with scenic views of the harbor, the surrounding hills of the Miramar Peninsula, and the Cook Strait.

3) Context: Wellington is known for its windy conditions, which can sometimes make the landing more eventful. The airport's location close to the city and the surrounding water adds to its distinctive approach.

Overall Significance

The recognition of Queenstown and Wellington Airports highlights the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand and how it can enhance even the typically mundane experience of arriving at an airport. For travelers, these landings offer a memorable first impression of the country's dramatic landscapes. For the airports, this recognition can be a point of pride and a potential draw for tourists. It also acknowledges the skill of the pilots who navigate the often challenging approaches to these scenic destinations.