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MEL → ASP
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Alice Springs Airport (Alice Springs)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the spectacular Flinders Ranges, including the iconic Wilpena Pound, and the transition into the deep red landscapes of Central Australia.
Search flights from MEL to ASP
Melbourne Skyline
Excellent views of the CBD, Port Phillip Bay, and the Yarra River immediately after takeoff.
The Great Dividing Range
The forested slopes of Australia's most substantial mountain range visible to the northeast.
Murray-Darling Basin
The lush green corridor of Australia's largest river system standing out against the dry plains.
Flinders Ranges
The breathtaking sight of Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheater of ancient mountains.
MacDonnell Ranges
The dramatic parallel ridges of red quartzite that signal your arrival in Alice Springs.
The right side is essential for viewing the Flinders Ranges, typically visible 60 to 80 minutes into the flight. Afternoon flights are particularly scenic on this side as the sinking sun highlights the textures and shadows of the mountain ridges. Try to secure a seat behind the wing for unobstructed views of Wilpena Pound.
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The Grampians (Gariwerd)
Distant views of the rugged sandstone mountain ranges and peaks in western Victoria.
Wimmera Salt Lakes
A series of ephemeral pink and white salt lakes dotting the agricultural landscape.
Lower Murray River
Aerial views of the river's winding path through the South Australian Mallee region.
Lake Torrens
A massive, shimmering salt pan that appears as a vast white expanse in the arid interior.
Finke River System
Ancient, serpentine riverbeds cutting through the desert sands as you enter the Northern Territory.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. Keep an eye out for the striking geometric patterns of the Wimmera farming districts early in the flight, and watch for the transition from green fields to the deep ochre of the Simpson Desert fringes.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 1,860 km (1,156 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 29 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: ASP (-23.806699752807617, 133.90199279785156)
Route Type: Domestic
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