About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Queenstown (ZQN) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Queenstown International to Melbourne. Right-side seats win overall due to the exceptional Queenstown takeoff views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, which are more visually dramatic than the landing approach. While the landing offers good Port Phillip Bay views from either side, the takeoff scenery is more distinctive and memorable.
What can I see during takeoff from Queenstown in Queenstown International?
During takeoff from Queenstown (ZQN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer the best views during climb-out from Queenstown. You'll see Lake Wakatipu immediately below and to the right, with the Remarkables mountain range rising dramatically on the eastern side of the lake. The left side faces inland terrain with less distinctive features. Notable sights include: Lake Wakatipu (long alpine lake directly below), The Remarkables (jagged mountain range on eastern shore), Coronet Peak (ski field visible on western ranges), Shotover River valley (cutting through terrain to the south).
What can I see when landing at Melbourne Moorabbin in Melbourne?
When landing at Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide superior views on approach to Melbourne. You'll see Port Phillip Bay opening up to the left, with the Dandenong Ranges visible inland to the north, and the Melbourne CBD skyline appearing ahead as you descend toward Moorabbin Airport on the bay's eastern shore. Notable sights include: Port Phillip Bay (large enclosed bay dominating the view), Dandenong Ranges (forested hills to the north), Melbourne CBD skyline (visible on the northern horizon), Moorabbin Airport area (coastal suburbs and bay shoreline).
How long is the flight from Queenstown International to Melbourne?
The flight from Queenstown (ZQN) to Melbourne Moorabbin (MBW) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Queenstown International to Melbourne flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Tasman Sea heading northeast from Queenstown. You'll pass over open water for most of the journey with no significant landmarks visible. As you approach the Australian coast near the Victoria-New South Wales border, the coastline becomes visible with the Great Dividing Range inland. The flight then tracks across inland Victoria, passing east of the Grampians and approaching Melbourne from the northwest, with the Dandenong Ranges becoming visible in the final approach phase.