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CHC → MEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Christchurch International Airport (Christchurch) to Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a more dramatic perspective of the Southern Alps' main divide upon departure and typically provides a clearer view of the Melbourne skyline during the final approach.
Search flights from CHC to MEL
Aoraki / Mount Cook
Stunning distant views of New Zealand's highest peak and the snow-capped Main Divide shortly after departure.
West Coast Glaciers
Glimpses of the dense temperate rainforests and glacial valleys leading down to the Tasman Sea.
Gippsland Lakes
A beautiful view of Australia's largest inland waterway system as the flight crosses the Victorian coastline.
Dandenong Ranges
The lush green hills and forests marking the eastern edge of the greater Melbourne metropolitan area.
Melbourne CBD
A prime view of the city's skyscrapers and the Yarra River during the descent into Tullamarine Airport.
For the best view of Mount Cook, ensure you are seated behind or well forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights are ideal for the right side as the sun will be behind the aircraft, perfectly illuminating the Southern Alps and the Melbourne skyline.
Book Hotels in MelbourneSouthern Alps Southern Reach
Aerial views of the southern extensions of the mountain range and the Canterbury Plains shortly after takeoff.
Tasman Sea Crossing
A vast expanse of deep blue ocean that makes up the majority of the three-hour flight duration.
Phillip Island
Distinctive views of the rugged coastline and the Penguin Parade area on the approach to Victoria.
Mornington Peninsula
Clear vistas of Port Phillip Bay and the various coastal townships as the aircraft enters the Melbourne basin.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare while crossing the Tasman. If the aircraft approaches MEL from the south over the bay, you will get a better view of the coastal holiday towns and the Mornington vineyards.
Get eSIMs for New Zealand
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 2,414 km (1,500 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 13 min
Departure: CHC (-43.48939895629883, 172.53199768066406)
Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Route Type: International
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