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DPS destination photo
MEL destination photo

DPSMEL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the volcanic peaks of the Lesser Sunda Islands shortly after takeoff and typically offers the best view of the Melbourne skyline during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Mount Rinjani

The towering silhouette of Lombok's massive stratovolcano is often visible to the east during the climb out from Bali.

🏝️

Nusa Penida

Direct views of the rugged cliffs and crystalline waters of the islands sitting just off the Bali coast.

🏜️

Great Sandy Desert

Vast expanses of longitudinal red sand dunes and ancient salt lake patterns across the Australian interior.

🌊

Spencer Gulf

The deep blue waters of the South Australian coast as the flight transitions from the desert to the southern ocean.

🏙️

Melbourne CBD

On the most common landing paths into Tullamarine, the left side offers a clear view of the city skyscrapers.

For the many overnight flights on this route, the left side is essential for witnessing a spectacular sunrise over the Australian outback. Early in the flight, keep your eyes peeled within the first 20 minutes to see the sun reflecting off the Bali coastline. Use a window shade to prevent glare while photographing the red desert hues mid-flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🐚

Uluwatu Cliffs

Views of the famous limestone cliffs and temple at the southern tip of Bali during departure.

🏜️

Gibson Desert

A striking landscape of undulating red sand plains and desert shrubs in Western Australia.

🌊

Great Australian Bight

Depending on the flight path, you may see the sheer limestone cliffs where the continent meets the Southern Ocean.

🛤️

Nullarbor Plain

The world's largest single exposure of limestone bedrock, appearing as a vast, flat, treeless landscape.

🌲

Otway Ranges

Lush green forested hills visible as you cross the Victorian coastline towards Melbourne.

The right side is ideal for afternoon departures to enjoy a long sunset over the Indian Ocean. It also offers a great perspective of the vastness of the Australian interior if the flight tracks further west. On the final descent, look for the Great Ocean Road coastline if the weather is clear and the approach is from the southwest.

Top Activities in Melbourne
Route Information

Distance: 4,382 km (2,723 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 9 min

Departure: DPS (-8.7481698989868, 115.16699981689)

Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)

Route Type: International

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