Left side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Toronto (downtown skyline, Lake Ontario, Scarborough Bluffs) which provides more dramatic urban and natural features during departure. While landing views are equal on both sides, the Toronto departure experience is more visually compelling than the Melbourne approach, making left the better overall choice for scenic value across the full flight.
Flown YTZ to MEL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Toronto to Melbourne is 10,110 miles (16,270 km), a flight of about 17 hours 20 minutes.
North American Great Lakes region (Lake Superior, Lake Michigan visible on westbound routing), Canadian Shield forests, Rocky Mountains (Alberta/British Columbia), Pacific coastline near Vancouver, open Pacific Ocean for 8-10 hours, Tasman Sea approach to Australia, Australian coastline near Adelaide or Melbourne depending on routing
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from YTZ
LEFTLeft side (north) offers views of Toronto's downtown skyline, Lake Ontario waterfront, and the Scarborough Bluffs during initial climb. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest during departure.
Landing at MEL
RIGHTRight side (north) during approach to Melbourne provides views of Port Phillip Bay's northern shoreline, the You Yangs volcanic hills, and suburban Melbourne sprawl. Left side faces open water and lacks distinctive landmarks during final descent.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from City Centre (YTZ) to Melbourne International (MEL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Toronto to Melbourne. Left side scores marginally higher due to superior takeoff scenery from Toronto (downtown skyline, Lake Ontario, Scarborough Bluffs) which provides more dramatic urban and natural features during departure. While landing views are equal on both sides, the Toronto departure experience is more visually compelling than the Melbourne approach, making left the better overall choice for scenic value across the full flight.
What can I see during takeoff from City Centre in Toronto?
During takeoff from City Centre (YTZ), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side (north) offers views of Toronto's downtown skyline, Lake Ontario waterfront, and the Scarborough Bluffs during initial climb. Right side faces inland toward flat suburban sprawl with minimal visual interest during departure. Notable sights include: Toronto CN Tower and downtown core, Lake Ontario shoreline, Scarborough Bluffs (eroded clay cliffs), Toronto Islands.
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. Right side (north) during approach to Melbourne provides views of Port Phillip Bay's northern shoreline, the You Yangs volcanic hills, and suburban Melbourne sprawl. Left side faces open water and lacks distinctive landmarks during final descent. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay, You Yangs volcanic hills, Geelong industrial area, Melbourne suburban grid.
How long is the flight from Toronto to Melbourne?
The flight from City Centre (YTZ) to Melbourne International (MEL) takes about 17 hours 20 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 10,110 miles (16,270 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Toronto to Melbourne flight path pass over?
North American Great Lakes region (Lake Superior, Lake Michigan visible on westbound routing), Canadian Shield forests, Rocky Mountains (Alberta/British Columbia), Pacific coastline near Vancouver, open Pacific Ocean for 8-10 hours, Tasman Sea approach to Australia, Australian coastline near Adelaide or Melbourne depending on routing