Takeoff views of the Southern Alps from the right side are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than landing views. While the landing offers Port Phillip Bay on the left, the alpine scenery during departure from Christchurch is more visually striking and unique to this route.
Flown CHC to MEB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Christchurch to Melbourne is 1,495 miles (2,406 km), a flight of about 3 hours 30 minutes.
The flight crosses the Tasman Sea for roughly 1,200 nautical miles. At cruise altitude (around 25,000-30,000 feet), the sea itself dominates the view with occasional cloud formations. The flight path takes you northwest from Christchurch, passing south of the Cook Strait and Tasmania, before approaching Melbourne from the southeast. No significant landmasses are visible during the midpoint ocean crossing, though on very clear days the northern tip of Tasmania may be visible as a faint landmass to the left (south) of the track during the latter portion of the crossing.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.JPG?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from CHC
RIGHTChristchurch typically departs eastbound (Runway 02 or 20 depending on wind). Right-side seats face the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains during initial climb, with the dramatic mountain range rising inland to the west-northwest. Left seats see only flat plains and urban sprawl.
Landing at MEB
LEFTMelbourne Essendon typically lands westbound (Runway 08 or 26). Left-side seats on approach face Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and the city's eastern suburbs. Right seats see only western suburbs and industrial areas with less geographic interest.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Christchurch International (CHC) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Christchurch to Melbourne. Takeoff views of the Southern Alps from the right side are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than landing views. While the landing offers Port Phillip Bay on the left, the alpine scenery during departure from Christchurch is more visually striking and unique to this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Christchurch International in Christchurch?
During takeoff from Christchurch International (CHC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Christchurch typically departs eastbound (Runway 02 or 20 depending on wind). Right-side seats face the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains during initial climb, with the dramatic mountain range rising inland to the west-northwest. Left seats see only flat plains and urban sprawl. Notable sights include: Southern Alps (Mt. Cook massif visible on clear days as a distant peak), Canterbury Plains (flat agricultural expanse), Lyttelton Harbour (water body to the east), Banks Peninsula (low hills to the southeast).
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. Melbourne Essendon typically lands westbound (Runway 08 or 26). Left-side seats on approach face Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and the city's eastern suburbs. Right seats see only western suburbs and industrial areas with less geographic interest. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (large enclosed water body), Dandenong Ranges (forested hills to the east), Melbourne CBD (urban cluster visible on clear days), Yarra River (winding through the city).
How long is the flight from Christchurch to Melbourne?
The flight from Christchurch International (CHC) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB) takes about 3 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,495 miles (2,406 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Christchurch to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Tasman Sea for roughly 1,200 nautical miles. At cruise altitude (around 25,000-30,000 feet), the sea itself dominates the view with occasional cloud formations. The flight path takes you northwest from Christchurch, passing south of the Cook Strait and Tasmania, before approaching Melbourne from the southeast. No significant landmasses are visible during the midpoint ocean crossing, though on very clear days the northern tip of Tasmania may be visible as a faint landmass to the left (south) of the track during the latter portion of the crossing.