People who miss travel and the experience of flying are booking flights that land where they depart. These “flights to nowhere” are selling out quickly in Brunei, Taiwan, Japan and Australia.

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With flight times ranging from one to several hours, these flights, also called “scenic flights,” are basically tours in the sky, generally flying at lower altitudes than regular flights. Airlines offer various services and amenities depending on the lengths of the flights. On its “dine and fly” flight, Royal Brunei serves the local cuisine of the country it is touring.

Qantas reported one such sightseeing flight sold out in 10 minutes. CEO Alan Joyce stated it was probably the “fastest-selling flight in Qantas history.”

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Because of the success, Qantas announced a seven-hour flight in October that will depart and land in Sydney. That flight will take passengers on a giant loop over Australia, allowing views of Queensland, the Gold Coast, New South Wales, Sydney Harbour, the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Bondi Beach and other popular locations.

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In August, EVA Air had a Taiwan-based flight to nowhere on its Hello Kitty-themed Airbus A330 Dream jet. Singapore Airlines and others are considering similar flight experiences.

At first I scoffed at this idea, but the demand and praise I have seen on social media is changing my mind. For people who miss the flight experience, this is an excellent new option.

— John Wroblewski, online writer