MEL

Best window seat at Melbourne International

Which side of the plane?

Pick the window seat with the view. 13,500 routes answered — landmarks, coastlines and cities, wing by wing.

About This Airport

Which side of the plane has the best views at Melbourne International (MEL)?

At Melbourne International in Melbourne: for takeoff, sit on the Left side; for landing, sit on the Left side. Notable views include: Port Phillip Bay (immediate left, expanding as you climb), Dandenong Ranges (left to left-rear, forested ridgeline), Yarra River valley (left-center during initial climb), Western suburbs sprawl (right side, less visually distinctive).

What can I see during takeoff from Melbourne International in Melbourne?

When taking off from Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Melbourne's primary runways (09L/27R and 09R/27L) typically depart eastbound, placing Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges on your left during climb-out. The bay's distinctive water body and the forested ranges provide strong visual reference points within the first 10–15 minutes of flight. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (immediate left, expanding as you climb), Dandenong Ranges (left to left-rear, forested ridgeline), Yarra River valley (left-center during initial climb), Western suburbs sprawl (right side, less visually distinctive).

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's primary runways (09L/27R and 09R/27L) are oriented east-west. Landing westbound (runway 27), the left side faces north toward Port Phillip Bay and the city skyline. Landing eastbound (runway 09), the left side shows the Dandenong Ranges and outer suburbs. Either way, the left side captures more varied geography than the right. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (northern approach), Dandenong Ranges (eastern approach), Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River bend.

What factors affect the best window seat at Melbourne International?

The best window seat at Melbourne International (MEL) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around Melbourne (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.