While takeoff favors the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and extended scenic value as the aircraft descends toward Colombo's coast and harbor. The Indian Ocean approach and coastal city views outweigh the Melbourne departure scenery.
Flown MEB to RML? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Melbourne to Colombo is 5,181 miles (8,338 km), a flight of about 9 hours.
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean for roughly 6-7 hours. Notable waypoints include the Strait of Malacca region (visible as the narrow waterway between Malaysia and Sumatra if flying that route), the Andaman Sea, and the western coast of the Indian subcontinent. Most of the midpoint journey crosses open ocean with occasional views of shipping lanes and weather systems, but limited distinctive landmarks until approaching Sri Lanka's western coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MEB
LEFTLeft side offers views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges as the aircraft climbs northwest from Essendon. Right side faces inland toward less distinctive terrain.
Landing at RML
RIGHTRight side provides views of the Indian Ocean approach, Colombo's coastal city layout, and the Kelani River delta as the aircraft descends toward Ratmalana. Left side faces inland over less visually distinctive terrain.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Melbourne Essendon (MEB) to Colombo Ratmalana (RML)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Melbourne to Colombo. While takeoff favors the left, the landing approach on the right provides more dramatic and extended scenic value as the aircraft descends toward Colombo's coast and harbor. The Indian Ocean approach and coastal city views outweigh the Melbourne departure scenery.
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. Left side offers views of Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges as the aircraft climbs northwest from Essendon. Right side faces inland toward less distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River estuary.
What can I see when landing at Colombo Ratmalana in Colombo?
When landing at Colombo Ratmalana (RML), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides views of the Indian Ocean approach, Colombo's coastal city layout, and the Kelani River delta as the aircraft descends toward Ratmalana. Left side faces inland over less visually distinctive terrain. Notable sights include: Indian Ocean, Colombo harbor and city grid, Kelani River delta, Colombo's western coastline.
How long is the flight from Melbourne to Colombo?
The flight from Melbourne Essendon (MEB) to Colombo Ratmalana (RML) takes about 9 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,181 miles (8,338 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Melbourne to Colombo flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean for roughly 6-7 hours. Notable waypoints include the Strait of Malacca region (visible as the narrow waterway between Malaysia and Sumatra if flying that route), the Andaman Sea, and the western coast of the Indian subcontinent. Most of the midpoint journey crosses open ocean with occasional views of shipping lanes and weather systems, but limited distinctive landmarks until approaching Sri Lanka's western coast.