Launceston to Melbourne flight path: LST to MEL

Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Launceston to Melbourne. While takeoff favors the right side with Tasmania's highlands, the left side wins overall thanks to the strong visual payoff of Melbourne's skyline and Port Phillip Bay during the final approach, which outweighs the brief highland view at departure on this short flight.

During takeoff from Launceston (LST), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Launceston, the climb typically banks toward the northwest, putting the Ben Lomond plateau and Tasmania's northern highlands on the right side of the aircraft. The left side mostly shows the flatter Tamar Valley and farmland, which is less dramatic. Notable sights include: Ben Lomond plateau, Tasmanian northern highlands, Tamar River valley (distant, left).

When landing at Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. On approach into Melbourne, arrivals from the south over Port Phillip Bay typically curve toward runway 34, placing the city's skyline and the Yarra River mouth on the left side of the aircraft. The right side mainly shows open bay water and the Mornington Peninsula in the distance, less visually rich than the urban approach. Notable sights include: Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River mouth, Port Phillip Bay, Docklands towers.

The flight from Launceston (LST) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 296 miles (476 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.

Bass Strait open water, with Flinders Island sometimes visible in the distance on the right side depending on routing