About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne. The right side wins overall due to the spectacular LA departure views of the city, coastline, and San Gabriel Mountains. The transpacific crossing offers little on either side over open ocean, and the Melbourne arrival advantage on the left is real but modest compared to the takeoff spectacle.
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. LAX departures on the predominant westward runways (24L/24R) head out over the Pacific, but the right side catches the Santa Monica Bay coastline curving north toward Malibu, and as the aircraft banks south toward the transpacific route, the right side gets a clear look back at the LA Basin, the downtown skyline, and the San Gabriel Mountains rising behind the city. The left side faces open ocean almost immediately. Notable sights include: Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Santa Monica Bay and Malibu coastline, San Gabriel Mountains (including Mount San Antonio/Baldy at 10,064 ft), Palos Verdes Peninsula.
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. Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) arrivals from the north typically use runways 16/27. On approach from the north on runway 16, the left side looks east over the Melbourne CBD skyline, Port Phillip Bay, and the Yarra River valley. This is the more visually rewarding side with the city and bay clearly laid out below. Notable sights include: Melbourne CBD skyline, Port Phillip Bay, Yarra River, Dandenong Ranges to the east.
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne?
The flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes Approximately 16 to 17 hours.
What does the Los Angeles to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The route tracks southwest from LAX across the central Pacific, passing well north of Hawaii (not visible), crossing the equator roughly over open ocean near the Line Islands, then continuing southwest over Fiji and Vanuatu (distant islands may be faintly visible on clear days), before crossing the Tasman Sea and making landfall on the southeastern Australian coast near or over Victoria.