The right side wins on both ends of the flight — coastal Perth scenery at takeoff and Port Phillip Bay with the Melbourne skyline at landing — plus a chance during cruise to see the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of the Great Australian Bight along the southern coastline. The left side offers only the featureless red-brown expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.
Flight Path
Great Australian Bight coastline, Bunda Cliffs near the Nullarbor Plain, Eyre Peninsula, Spencer Gulf
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PER
RIGHTDeparting PER on runway 21, the initial climb heads south along the coast before turning east toward Melbourne, putting the Indian Ocean, Fremantle harbor, and the Swan River estuary on the right side of the aircraft. Left-side passengers mostly see the flat Perth suburbs and the low Darling Range in the distance.
Landing at MEL
RIGHTOn approach into Melbourne, flights arriving from the west typically track down over Port Phillip Bay before turning onto final for runway 34, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view of the bay, the You Yangs hills, and the Melbourne CBD skyline. The left side mostly shows flat western suburban sprawl.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Perth International (PER) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Perth to Melbourne. The right side wins on both ends of the flight — coastal Perth scenery at takeoff and Port Phillip Bay with the Melbourne skyline at landing — plus a chance during cruise to see the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of the Great Australian Bight along the southern coastline. The left side offers only the featureless red-brown expanse of the Nullarbor Plain.
What can I see during takeoff from Perth International in Perth?
During takeoff from Perth International (PER), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing PER on runway 21, the initial climb heads south along the coast before turning east toward Melbourne, putting the Indian Ocean, Fremantle harbor, and the Swan River estuary on the right side of the aircraft. Left-side passengers mostly see the flat Perth suburbs and the low Darling Range in the distance. Notable sights include: Swan River mouth, Fremantle Harbour, Indian Ocean coastline, Perth CBD skyline.
What can I see when landing at Melbourne International in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne International (MEL), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Melbourne, flights arriving from the west typically track down over Port Phillip Bay before turning onto final for runway 34, giving right-side passengers a sweeping view of the bay, the You Yangs hills, and the Melbourne CBD skyline. The left side mostly shows flat western suburban sprawl. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, You Yangs range, Melbourne CBD skyline, Bass Strait horizon.
How long is the flight from Perth to Melbourne?
The flight from Perth International (PER) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes 4h 05m.
What does the Perth to Melbourne flight path pass over?
Great Australian Bight coastline, Bunda Cliffs near the Nullarbor Plain, Eyre Peninsula, Spencer Gulf