Loading map...
MEL → BNK
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (Ballina Byron Bay)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a breathtaking perspective of the East Coast, featuring continuous views of the Tasman Sea, distant glimpses of major coastal cities, and a scenic arrival over Cape Byron.
Search flights from MEL to BNK
Port Phillip Bay
Sweeping views of Melbourne's coastline and the Mornington Peninsula immediately after takeoff.
Sydney Basin
On standard coastal tracks, the Sydney CBD, Harbour Bridge, and Opera House can be spotted in the distance.
Mid-North Coast
Pristine stretches of coastline including Port Macquarie and the Solitary Islands Marine Park near Coffs Harbour.
Cape Byron
The iconic white lighthouse on the easternmost point of mainland Australia, visible just before landing.
The right side is essential for coastal views. Morning flights offer the best lighting over the ocean and beaches without sun glare. During the final approach into Ballina, keep your camera ready for the Cape Byron headland, which is usually visible during the descent sequence.
Book Hotels in Ballina Byron Bay
Snowy Mountains
Australia's highest peaks, including Mt Kosciuszko, often visible early in the flight during winter months.
Blue Mountains
The rugged sandstone plateaus and deep gorges of the Greater Blue Mountains Area west of Sydney.
Hunter Valley
The structured patchwork of vineyards and rolling green hills belonging to Australia's oldest wine region.
Mount Warning
The prominent central plug of the ancient Tweed Volcano, visible during the descent into the Northern Rivers.
Choose the left side for afternoon departures to see the sun set over the Great Dividing Range. It is the best side for observing the inland geography and the vast scale of the mountain ranges that parallel the coast.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 1,273 km (791 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: BNK (-28.8339004517, 153.56199646)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.