While the takeoff offers good local Melbourne geography, the landing descent provides more dramatic and sustained scenic value. The Thames estuary, English coastline, and the transition from rural to urban landscape as you approach London offer richer visual interest than the departure phase.
Flown MBW to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Melbourne to London is 10,531 miles (16,948 km), a flight of about 17 hours 20 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean, passes over the Arabian Peninsula (Oman and UAE coastlines visible on the right during daylight), traverses the Persian Gulf region, continues over Iran and Turkey, crosses the Mediterranean Sea, and approaches Europe over France and southern England. Notable midpoint landmarks include the Strait of Hormuz, the Taurus Mountains in Turkey, and the Alps (visible on the right side during descent into Europe on clear days).
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from MBW
LEFTLeft side offers views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges as the aircraft climbs westward from Moorabbin. The bay's distinctive shape and the forested ridgeline provide clear visual reference during the initial climb.
Landing at LHR
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Thames estuary, the North Sea coast, and the patchwork of English countryside as the aircraft descends toward Heathrow from the east. The river's distinctive meanders and coastal geography are striking visual markers.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Melbourne to London. While the takeoff offers good local Melbourne geography, the landing descent provides more dramatic and sustained scenic value. The Thames estuary, English coastline, and the transition from rural to urban landscape as you approach London offer richer visual interest than the departure phase.
What can I see during takeoff from Melbourne Moorabbin in Melbourne?
During takeoff from Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges as the aircraft climbs westward from Moorabbin. The bay's distinctive shape and the forested ridgeline provide clear visual reference during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River estuary.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Thames estuary, the North Sea coast, and the patchwork of English countryside as the aircraft descends toward Heathrow from the east. The river's distinctive meanders and coastal geography are striking visual markers. Notable sights include: Thames estuary and meanders, North Sea coastline, English Channel, Kent and Essex agricultural landscape.
How long is the flight from Melbourne to London?
The flight from Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 17 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 10,531 miles (16,948 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Melbourne to London flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean, passes over the Arabian Peninsula (Oman and UAE coastlines visible on the right during daylight), traverses the Persian Gulf region, continues over Iran and Turkey, crosses the Mediterranean Sea, and approaches Europe over France and southern England. Notable midpoint landmarks include the Strait of Hormuz, the Taurus Mountains in Turkey, and the Alps (visible on the right side during descent into Europe on clear days).