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MEL → DRW
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Darwin International Airport (Darwin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more diverse landscape palette, featuring the Melbourne skyline, the winding Murray River, and the spectacular geological formations of the MacDonnell Ranges.
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Melbourne CBD
Unmatched views of the city center, MCG, and Yarra River shortly after takeoff from MEL.
Murray River
Watch the life-giving watercourse wind its way through the semi-arid plains of the border region.
MacDonnell Ranges
The striking, linear ridges of red rock that define the landscape around Alice Springs.
Katherine Gorges
Dramatic sandstone cliffs and lush green vegetation visible as you enter the Top End.
Darwin Harbor
A full view of the city's port, waterfront, and the urban layout during the final approach.
The right side is essential for seeing the classic Red Centre geography. During the dry season (May-Oct), the contrast between the red earth and the blue sky is most vibrant. Try to book a window seat away from the wing to see the river systems clearly.
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Port Phillip Bay
Excellent views of the western shoreline and the Bellarine Peninsula during the initial climb.
Lake Eyre Basin
A vast, shimmering landscape of salt crusts and dry riverbeds stretching toward the horizon.
Great Sandy Desert
The stark beauty of the deep red Australian interior with its unique longitudinal sand dunes.
Darwin Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side offers stunning views of the sun dipping into the Timor Sea.
Choose this side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you. Keep your eyes peeled for the white flashes of salt pans in the mid-section of the flight, which indicate the ancient drainage systems of the interior.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for AustraliaDistance: 3,132 km (1,946 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 41 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: DRW (-12.41469955444336, 130.87699890136722)
Route Type: Domestic
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