While takeoff offers good Delhi views from the right, the landing approach into Melbourne from the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges are visually striking and occupy a larger portion of the descent. The left side captures the most memorable part of this long-haul route.
Flight Path
This route typically crosses the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible), the Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal depending on routing, then passes over Southeast Asia (possibly Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia—the Strait of Malacca or Sunda Strait may be visible), before crossing the Indian Ocean toward Australia. The Indian Ocean crossing offers minimal landmarks but clear water and occasional weather systems. Approaching Australia, the Great Dividing Range becomes visible on the eastern coast before descent into Melbourne.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Indira Gandhi International (DEL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Delhi to Melbourne. While takeoff offers good Delhi views from the right, the landing approach into Melbourne from the left provides more dramatic and sustained scenery—Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges are visually striking and occupy a larger portion of the descent. The left side captures the most memorable part of this long-haul route.
What can I see during takeoff from Indira Gandhi International in Delhi?
During takeoff from Indira Gandhi International (DEL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Yamuna River winding through Delhi's urban sprawl and the Aravalli Hills to the south and southeast. The climb-out path typically heads southeast, positioning these features directly along your window. Notable sights include: Yamuna River (visible as a brown ribbon through the city), Aravalli Hills (low ridge on the horizon), Delhi's urban grid and Indira Gandhi International Airport grounds, Noida cityscape to the east.
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. Left-side seats offer views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges during descent into Melbourne. The approach typically comes from the north or northeast, making the bay and its eastern shoreline prominent on the left side as you descend toward Essendon. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (large body of water with distinctive shape), Dandenong Ranges (forested hills to the east), Melbourne's urban sprawl and CBD skyline, Yarra River delta.
How long is the flight from Delhi to Melbourne?
The flight from Indira Gandhi International (DEL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB) takes Approximately 14-15 hours (including refueling stop, typically in Southeast Asia or Middle East).
What does the Delhi to Melbourne flight path pass over?
This route typically crosses the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible), the Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal depending on routing, then passes over Southeast Asia (possibly Thailand, Malaysia, or Indonesia—the Strait of Malacca or Sunda Strait may be visible), before crossing the Indian Ocean toward Australia. The Indian Ocean crossing offers minimal landmarks but clear water and occasional weather systems. Approaching Australia, the Great Dividing Range becomes visible on the eastern coast before descent into Melbourne.