The right side captures the most dramatic and varied scenery: the volcanic and mountainous terrain of the Philippines during takeoff, followed by views of the Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and the Indonesian archipelago during the long southern crossing, and finally the approach to Melbourne. Left-side views are more water-dominated over the open ocean crossing.
Flown MNL to MEL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Manila to Melbourne is 3,923 miles (6,313 km), a flight of about 7 hours.
The flight path crosses the Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea, passing over or near the Philippine archipelago's southern islands (Mindanao visible on right side during early flight), then over the Banda Sea and Timor Sea. The Molucca Islands and northern Australian coastline (Cape York Peninsula, Gulf of Carpentaria) may be visible on the right side during the southern portion of the flight, depending on exact routing. The crossing is predominantly over open ocean with limited landmark visibility during the middle 4-5 hours of flight.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MNL
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Manila Bay and the Cordillera Central mountain range as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and the rugged terrain inland provide strong visual interest during the initial climb-out phase.
Landing at MEL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's urban sprawl during descent. The bay's distinctive shape and the green forested hills create strong visual landmarks as you 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 International (MEL)?
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 and varied scenery: the volcanic and mountainous terrain of the Philippines during takeoff, followed by views of the Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and the Indonesian archipelago during the long southern crossing, and finally the approach to Melbourne. Left-side views are more water-dominated over the open ocean crossing.
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 mountain range as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and the rugged terrain inland provide strong visual interest during the initial climb-out phase. Notable sights include: Manila Bay, Cordillera Central (northern Luzon), Laguna de Bay, Sierra Madre range.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views of Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and Melbourne's urban sprawl during descent. The bay's distinctive shape and the green forested hills create strong visual landmarks as you approach from the north. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne CBD skyline, Yarra River.
How long is the flight from Manila to Melbourne?
The flight from Ninoy Aquino International (MNL) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 7 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 3,923 miles (6,313 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 Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea, passing over or near the Philippine archipelago's southern islands (Mindanao visible on right side during early flight), then over the Banda Sea and Timor Sea. The Molucca Islands and northern Australian coastline (Cape York Peninsula, Gulf of Carpentaria) may be visible on the right side during the southern portion of the flight, depending on exact routing. The crossing is predominantly over open ocean with limited landmark visibility during the middle 4-5 hours of flight.