While takeoff favors the right for Delhi's river and hills, the landing view from the left—Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges—is more visually striking and geographically distinctive. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible below around 6-7 hours), then the Arabian Sea, before crossing the Indian Ocean for 8+ hours. The Deccan's plateau edge and scattered lakes are visible during the initial southeastward leg. The vast open ocean dominates the middle 8 hours with no significant landmarks. As the aircraft approaches Australia, the Great Australian Bight becomes visible, followed by the Australian coastline near Adelaide or further east depending on routing. The final approach into Melbourne crosses the southeastern Australian coast and Port Phillip Bay.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Indira Gandhi International (DEL) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Delhi to Melbourne. While takeoff favors the right for Delhi's river and hills, the landing view from the left—Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges—is more visually striking and geographically distinctive. The landing experience outweighs the takeoff advantage.
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 eastern suburbs during initial climb, with the Aravalli Hills visible as a distant ridge to the south. Left side faces the sprawling urban grid with less distinctive geography. Notable sights include: Yamuna River (immediate right, snaking through suburbs), Aravalli Hills (southern horizon, low ridge), Delhi's urban sprawl (grid pattern below), Indus-Gangetic Plain (extending eastward).
What can I see when landing at Melbourne International in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne International (MEL), 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 bay's distinctive shape and the forested ranges provide strong visual landmarks. Right side faces the flat western suburbs with less geographic interest. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (large enclosed water body, distinctive shape), Dandenong Ranges (forested hills southeast of city), Melbourne CBD skyline (distant, on northern shore of bay), Yarra River (visible as thin line through city).
How long is the flight from Delhi to Melbourne?
The flight from Indira Gandhi International (DEL) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes Approximately 13-14 hours.
What does the Delhi to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Indian subcontinent (Deccan Plateau visible below around 6-7 hours), then the Arabian Sea, before crossing the Indian Ocean for 8+ hours. The Deccan's plateau edge and scattered lakes are visible during the initial southeastward leg. The vast open ocean dominates the middle 8 hours with no significant landmarks. As the aircraft approaches Australia, the Great Australian Bight becomes visible, followed by the Australian coastline near Adelaide or further east depending on routing. The final approach into Melbourne crosses the southeastern Australian coast and Port Phillip Bay.