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BNE → MEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Brisbane International Airport (Brisbane) to Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers breathtaking views of the Gold Coast skyline shortly after departure, the New South Wales coastline, and the best vantage point for the Snowy Mountains and Melbourne CBD during the descent.
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Gold Coast Skyline
Approximately 10-15 minutes after takeoff, enjoy a clear view of the Surfers Paradise high-rises and the winding canals.
Cape Byron
Look out for Australia's easternmost point and its iconic white lighthouse as you track south along the coast.
Snowy Mountains
On clear days, especially in winter and spring, the snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps and Mt Kosciuszko are visible in the distance.
Melbourne CBD
During a standard approach into Runway 16 or 27, this side provides an unbeatable view of the city skyline and Port Phillip Bay.
MCG and Sporting Precinct
As the plane banks for its final approach, you can often spot the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Olympic Park.
Book a window seat behind the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For morning flights, this side receives the best natural light for photography. If the flight path takes you over the sea initially, keep your eyes peeled for whale migrations between June and November.
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Main Range National Park
Rugged volcanic peaks and rainforest ridges of the Great Dividing Range shortly after leaving Brisbane airspace.
Hunter Valley
Distant views of the patchwork vineyards and coal mining regions of central New South Wales.
The Riverina
Stunning geometric patterns of the New South Wales agricultural heartland, showing varied colors depending on the season.
Victorian Plains
The flat, fertile volcanic plains of northern Victoria as you begin the final descent into Tullamarine.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Australian interior. It offers a more 'outback' perspective of the Great Dividing Range compared to the coastal views on the left. Watch for the shadows lengthening over the Great Dividing Range for dramatic terrain textures.
Book Hotels in MelbourneDistance: 1,381 km (858 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: BNE (-27.38419914245605, 153.11700439453125)
Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Route Type: Domestic
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