While takeoff favors the left with Hong Kong's skyline, the right side offers more sustained variety across the flight—glimpses of Philippine and Indonesian island coastlines during cruise plus the Melbourne bay and city approach—edging out the left's ocean-heavy cruise segment.
Flown HKG to MEL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Hong Kong to Melbourne is 4,606 miles (7,412 km), a flight of about 9 hours 10 minutes.
The route crosses the South China Sea, passes near the Philippine island of Palawan or the Sulu Sea, continues over Borneo and the Java Sea, then traverses the arid interior of Northern Territory and Queensland before reaching southeastern Australia.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from HKG
LEFTDeparting HKG toward the south, the initial turn typically banks over Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour, giving left-side passengers a dramatic skyline view of high-rises against the harbor before the aircraft climbs out over the South China Sea.
Landing at MEL
RIGHTOn approach to MEL from the north, the descent path passes near Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne CBD skyline before final approach, best seen from the right side as the aircraft aligns with the north-south runway.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Hong Kong to Melbourne. While takeoff favors the left with Hong Kong's skyline, the right side offers more sustained variety across the flight—glimpses of Philippine and Indonesian island coastlines during cruise plus the Melbourne bay and city approach—edging out the left's ocean-heavy cruise segment.
What can I see during takeoff from Hong Kong International in Hong Kong?
During takeoff from Hong Kong International (HKG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing HKG toward the south, the initial turn typically banks over Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour, giving left-side passengers a dramatic skyline view of high-rises against the harbor before the aircraft climbs out over the South China Sea. Notable sights include: Hong Kong Island skyline, Victoria Harbour, Kowloon Peninsula, Lamma Island.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne International in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach to MEL from the north, the descent path passes near Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne CBD skyline before final approach, best seen from the right side as the aircraft aligns with the north-south runway. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River, Dandenong Ranges (distant).
How long is the flight from Hong Kong to Melbourne?
The flight from Hong Kong International (HKG) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 9 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 4,606 miles (7,412 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Hong Kong to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The route crosses the South China Sea, passes near the Philippine island of Palawan or the Sulu Sea, continues over Borneo and the Java Sea, then traverses the arid interior of Northern Territory and Queensland before reaching southeastern Australia.