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MEL → AUH
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Abu Dhabi International Airport (Abu Dhabi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side offers a spectacular perspective of Australia's red heart and salt lakes, followed by the vast dunes of the Empty Quarter and iconic Abu Dhabi landmarks on descent.
Melbourne Skyline
A clear view of the CBD and the Yarra River if the aircraft departs towards the north or performs a sweeping turn.
Lake Eyre / Kati Thanda
The mesmerizing patterns of Australia's largest salt lake, often appearing as a shimmering white or pink expanse.
Great Sandy Desert
Intricate longitudinal dune patterns and the remote wilderness areas of central and northwestern Australia.
Rub' al Khali
The 'Empty Quarter', featuring some of the world's highest and most geometrically beautiful sand dunes.
Yas Island
Spot the bright red roof of Ferrari World and the Yas Marina F1 Circuit during the final descent into AUH.
This side is prime for daytime departures to see the shifting colors of the Australian Outback. For the arrival in Abu Dhabi, the Right Side typically provides the best view of the Yas Marina Circuit and the city's unique island geography. Use a polarizing filter for photos of the Australian salt lakes to cut through atmospheric haze.
Port Phillip Bay
Aerial views of the Mornington Peninsula and the Victorian coastline immediately after takeoff from MEL.
Great Australian Bight
Stunning views of the limestone cliffs and the southern edge of the Nullarbor Plain depending on the flight track.
Western Australian Coast
The dramatic transition from the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to the iron-rich red earth of the Pilbara.
Arabian Sea
Vast maritime vistas and the possibility of spotting large cargo vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz.
Abu Dhabi South
Views of the sprawling desert suburbs and solar farms as the aircraft aligns for its final landing sequence.
Keep your window shade up during the first 30 minutes to catch the Victorian coastline. On approach to Abu Dhabi, look for the rugged mountains of Oman if the flight path tracks slightly north. Night flights offer exceptionally clear views of the stars over the remote Indian Ocean segments.
Distance: 11,652 km (7,240 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 13 hrs 42 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: AUH (24.433000564575195, 54.651100158691406)
Route Type: International
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