The right side captures the most dramatic scenery on departure (Manila Bay and Cordillera Central), while the left side on arrival is also strong. However, the takeoff views are more visually distinctive and sustained during climb-out, making right the overall preference for this route.
Flown MNL to MEB? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Manila to Melbourne is 3,928 miles (6,321 km), a flight of about 7 hours 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Celebes Sea and Banda Sea, passing east of Sulawesi and west of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Notable features include the volcanic peaks of the Sunda Arc (visible on clear days), the Timor Sea crossing, and the approach to Australia over the Arafura Sea. The Kimberley Plateau region of northwestern Australia becomes visible during the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MNL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Manila Bay and the Cordillera Central as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and the mountain range's ridgelines are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at MEB
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne metropolitan area during descent. The bay's distinctive shape, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the city's grid pattern are all visible on approach from the north.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Manila to Melbourne. The right side captures the most dramatic scenery on departure (Manila Bay and Cordillera Central), while the left side on arrival is also strong. However, the takeoff views are more visually distinctive and sustained during climb-out, making right the overall preference for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Ninoy Aquino International in Manila?
During takeoff from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Manila Bay and the Cordillera Central as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and the mountain range's ridgelines are clearly visible during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Cordillera Central mountain range, Laguna de Bay, Clark Freeport Zone area.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne Essendon in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne Essendon (MEB), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne metropolitan area during descent. The bay's distinctive shape, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the city's grid pattern are all visible on approach from the north. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Yarra River, Melbourne CBD and suburbs.
How long is the flight from Manila to Melbourne?
The flight from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Melbourne Essendon (MEB) takes about 7 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 3,928 miles (6,321 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Manila to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Celebes Sea and Banda Sea, passing east of Sulawesi and west of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Notable features include the volcanic peaks of the Sunda Arc (visible on clear days), the Timor Sea crossing, and the approach to Australia over the Arafura Sea. The Kimberley Plateau region of northwestern Australia becomes visible during the final descent phase.