Right side scores higher (2.5 vs 2.0) because it captures both the LA coastal departure scenery and the Port Phillip Bay approach into Melbourne. While this ultra-long transpacific flight is dominated by 13+ hours of open ocean with minimal visual interest on either side, the right side benefits from superior bookend views at both airports. The left side sees only open ocean during departure and approaches from the ocean side with less distinctive landmarks.
Flown LAX to MBW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Los Angeles to Melbourne is 7,924 miles (12,752 km), a flight of about 13 hours 45 minutes.
This transpacific route crosses the International Date Line and traverses the central Pacific Ocean for approximately 13 hours. No significant land features are visible during cruise; the flight passes south of Hawaii and north of Fiji. The route follows great-circle routing across open ocean with no intermediate landmarks visible from altitude. Sunrise/sunset effects and occasional cloud formations provide the only visual variation during the long cruise phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from LAX
RIGHTRight side captures the Los Angeles basin and Pacific coastline during westbound departure. Aircraft depart west over the ocean on inner runways (24L/25R), so right-side passengers see the sprawling LA metro area, Santa Monica Bay, and the Malibu coastline receding northward as the aircraft climbs and turns toward the Pacific.
Landing at MBW
RIGHTRight side offers superior approach scenery into Melbourne Moorabbin. Aircraft typically descend from the northeast and approach runways 17L/35R or 17R/35L heading southwest. Right-side passengers see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the Melbourne metropolitan sprawl including the Yarra River and CBD skyline during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne. Right side scores higher (2.5 vs 2.0) because it captures both the LA coastal departure scenery and the Port Phillip Bay approach into Melbourne. While this ultra-long transpacific flight is dominated by 13+ hours of open ocean with minimal visual interest on either side, the right side benefits from superior bookend views at both airports. The left side sees only open ocean during departure and approaches from the ocean side with less distinctive landmarks.
What can I see during takeoff from Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
During takeoff from Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side captures the Los Angeles basin and Pacific coastline during westbound departure. Aircraft depart west over the ocean on inner runways (24L/25R), so right-side passengers see the sprawling LA metro area, Santa Monica Bay, and the Malibu coastline receding northward as the aircraft climbs and turns toward the Pacific. Notable sights include: Santa Monica Bay, Malibu coastline, Los Angeles downtown skyline (distant), Pacific Ocean horizon.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne Moorabbin in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers superior approach scenery into Melbourne Moorabbin. Aircraft typically descend from the northeast and approach runways 17L/35R or 17R/35L heading southwest. Right-side passengers see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the Melbourne metropolitan sprawl including the Yarra River and CBD skyline during final descent. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Yarra River, Melbourne CBD skyline.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW) takes about 13 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 7,924 miles (12,752 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Los Angeles to Melbourne flight path pass over?
This transpacific route crosses the International Date Line and traverses the central Pacific Ocean for approximately 13 hours. No significant land features are visible during cruise; the flight passes south of Hawaii and north of Fiji. The route follows great-circle routing across open ocean with no intermediate landmarks visible from altitude. Sunrise/sunset effects and occasional cloud formations provide the only visual variation during the long cruise phase.