While the takeoff offers good volcanic scenery, the landing approach into Melbourne provides more sustained visual interest with Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and the city itself. Left seats capture the approach corridor better.
Flown VLI to MEL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Port Vila to Melbourne is 1,981 miles (3,188 km), a flight of about 4 hours 25 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Tasman Sea for approximately 1,200 nautical miles. Notable features include the New Hebrides Trench (underwater, not visible), the transition from tropical to temperate waters, and the approach to the Australian continent via the Bass Strait. At cruise altitude (typically 31,000-35,000 feet), the sea itself dominates the view with occasional cloud formations. As you approach Australia, the coastline of eastern Victoria becomes visible, including Cape Liptrap and the entrance to Port Phillip Bay.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from VLI
RIGHTRight side seats face northwest over Espiritu Santo and the New Hebrides chain. You'll see the dramatic volcanic peaks and reef-fringed coastlines of northern Vanuatu receding as you climb, with the Coral Sea stretching beyond.
Landing at MEL
LEFTLeft side seats provide the best approach views into Melbourne. You'll see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the sprawl of metropolitan Melbourne with the CBD visible before touchdown at Tullamarine.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Port Vila Bauerfield (VLI) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Port Vila to Melbourne. While the takeoff offers good volcanic scenery, the landing approach into Melbourne provides more sustained visual interest with Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges, and the city itself. Left seats capture the approach corridor better.
What can I see during takeoff from Port Vila Bauerfield in Port Vila?
During takeoff from Port Vila Bauerfield (VLI), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side seats face northwest over Espiritu Santo and the New Hebrides chain. You'll see the dramatic volcanic peaks and reef-fringed coastlines of northern Vanuatu receding as you climb, with the Coral Sea stretching beyond. Notable sights include: Espiritu Santo island (largest landmass, volcanic terrain), Banks Islands chain (smaller islands to the north), Coral Sea (open water to the east), Port Vila harbor (below during initial climb).
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 the best approach views into Melbourne. You'll see Port Phillip Bay, the Dandenong Ranges to the east, and the sprawl of metropolitan Melbourne with the CBD visible before touchdown at Tullamarine. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (large enclosed water body), Dandenong Ranges (forested hills to the southeast), Melbourne CBD (urban cluster with tall buildings), Yarra River (winding through the city).
How long is the flight from Port Vila to Melbourne?
The flight from Port Vila Bauerfield (VLI) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 4 hours 25 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,981 miles (3,188 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Port Vila to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Tasman Sea for approximately 1,200 nautical miles. Notable features include the New Hebrides Trench (underwater, not visible), the transition from tropical to temperate waters, and the approach to the Australian continent via the Bass Strait. At cruise altitude (typically 31,000-35,000 feet), the sea itself dominates the view with occasional cloud formations. As you approach Australia, the coastline of eastern Victoria becomes visible, including Cape Liptrap and the entrance to Port Phillip Bay.