The left side combines a scenic Melbourne departure with extended views of the dramatic Great Australian Bight cliffs during cruise, outweighing the flatter Nullarbor views on the right and giving the left side the stronger overall experience despite Perth's better coastal landing view.
Flown MEB to PER? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Melbourne to Perth is 1,682 miles (2,706 km), a flight of about 3 hours 50 minutes.
Great Australian Bight coastline and cliffs, Eyre Peninsula, Nullarbor Plain
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEB
LEFTDeparting Essendon on runway 26, the aircraft climbs westward with Melbourne's CBD skyline and Port Phillip Bay falling away to the south (left side), giving passengers a brief but clear view of the city before the turn onto course.
Landing at PER
RIGHTOn approach to Perth's runway 21, the aircraft tracks south with the Indian Ocean coastline, Swan River mouth, and Fremantle Harbour visible to the west (right side), while the Darling Range forms a flatter, less distinctive backdrop to the east.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Melbourne Essendon (MEB) to Perth International (PER)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Melbourne to Perth. The left side combines a scenic Melbourne departure with extended views of the dramatic Great Australian Bight cliffs during cruise, outweighing the flatter Nullarbor views on the right and giving the left side the stronger overall experience despite Perth's better coastal landing view.
What can I see during takeoff from Melbourne Essendon in Melbourne?
During takeoff from Melbourne Essendon (MEB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Departing Essendon on runway 26, the aircraft climbs westward with Melbourne's CBD skyline and Port Phillip Bay falling away to the south (left side), giving passengers a brief but clear view of the city before the turn onto course. Notable sights include: Melbourne CBD skyline, Port Phillip Bay, Westgate Bridge, Yarra River mouth.
What can I see when landing at Perth International in Perth?
When landing at Perth International (PER), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach to Perth's runway 21, the aircraft tracks south with the Indian Ocean coastline, Swan River mouth, and Fremantle Harbour visible to the west (right side), while the Darling Range forms a flatter, less distinctive backdrop to the east. Notable sights include: Swan River estuary, Fremantle Harbour, Rottnest Island, Indian Ocean coastline.
How long is the flight from Melbourne to Perth?
The flight from Melbourne Essendon (MEB) to Perth International (PER) takes about 3 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,682 miles (2,706 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Melbourne to Perth flight path pass over?
Great Australian Bight coastline and cliffs, Eyre Peninsula, Nullarbor Plain