While takeoff from Auckland offers a nice glimpse of Rangitoto and the harbor, the Melbourne approach delivers a longer, clearer, and more recognizable skyline-and-bay view during final descent, giving the left side a slight edge over a flight that is otherwise dominated by open Tasman Sea.
Flown AKL to MEB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Auckland to Melbourne is 1,635 miles (2,631 km), a flight of about 3 hours 40 minutes.
Open Tasman Sea with no islands or coastline visible for most of the crossing
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from AKL
RIGHTDeparting on runway 23L, the climb-out banks the aircraft away from the Auckland isthmus, giving right-side passengers a receding view of Auckland's CBD skyline, the volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island sitting in the Waitemata Harbour, and the Hauraki Gulf islands before the coastline disappears behind.
Landing at MEB
LEFTArriving into Essendon from the east on runway 26, the approach path passes just north of central Melbourne, putting the CBD skyline and Port Phillip Bay on the left side of the aircraft during final descent — a much more distinctive view than the northern suburbs visible to the right.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Auckland International (AKL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Auckland to Melbourne. While takeoff from Auckland offers a nice glimpse of Rangitoto and the harbor, the Melbourne approach delivers a longer, clearer, and more recognizable skyline-and-bay view during final descent, giving the left side a slight edge over a flight that is otherwise dominated by open Tasman Sea.
What can I see during takeoff from Auckland International in Auckland?
During takeoff from Auckland International (AKL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing on runway 23L, the climb-out banks the aircraft away from the Auckland isthmus, giving right-side passengers a receding view of Auckland's CBD skyline, the volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island sitting in the Waitemata Harbour, and the Hauraki Gulf islands before the coastline disappears behind. Notable sights include: Rangitoto Island, Auckland CBD skyline, Waitemata Harbour, Hauraki Gulf islands.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne Essendon in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne Essendon (MEB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Arriving into Essendon from the east on runway 26, the approach path passes just north of central Melbourne, putting the CBD skyline and Port Phillip Bay on the left side of the aircraft during final descent — a much more distinctive view than the northern suburbs visible to the right. Notable sights include: Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River, Port Phillip Bay, Docklands towers.
How long is the flight from Auckland to Melbourne?
The flight from Auckland International (AKL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB) takes about 3 hours 40 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,635 miles (2,631 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Auckland to Melbourne flight path pass over?
Open Tasman Sea with no islands or coastline visible for most of the crossing