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CNS → MEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairns International Airport (Cairns) to Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the turquoise Great Barrier Reef upon departure, followed by the iconic Australian coastline and a scenic arrival into Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay.
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Great Barrier Reef
Just minutes after takeoff from Cairns, witness the incredible coral formations and turquoise waters of the world's largest reef system.
K'gari (Fraser Island)
Look for the world's largest sand island, featuring dense rainforests growing on dunes and crystalline perched lakes.
Gold Coast Skyline
View the high-rise towers of Surfers Paradise stretching along the narrow strip of sand between the ocean and the canals.
Byron Bay & Cape Byron
Spot the lighthouse marking the easternmost point of the Australian mainland and the sweeping white sands of the northern NSW coast.
Port Phillip Bay
As you descend into Melbourne, enjoy views of the Mornington Peninsula and the vast expanse of the bay.
Sit on the left (Port) side for the best chance to see the Great Barrier Reef immediately after takeoff. For the most vibrant colors, choose a morning flight when the sun is behind you. During the final descent into Melbourne, this side often provides panoramic views of the Mornington Peninsula and the bay's eastern shoreline.
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Atherton Tablelands
View the lush, elevated tropical rainforests and agricultural plateaus located behind Cairns.
Glass House Mountains
Observe the distinctive volcanic peaks rising abruptly from the coastal plain north of Brisbane.
Snowy Mountains
During winter and early spring, look for the snow-capped peaks of the Australian Alps as you cross into Victoria.
Melbourne CBD
On many northern approaches to MEL airport, this side offers the clearest view of the city's skyscraper-filled skyline.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Australian interior. Keep an eye out for the rugged peaks of the Great Dividing Range throughout the flight. If the aircraft approaches Melbourne from the north, this side offers the most direct views of the central business district's skyline.
Book Hotels in MelbourneDistance: 2,313 km (1,437 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 5 min
Departure: CNS (-16.885799408, 145.755004883)
Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Route Type: Domestic
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