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MEL → HKT
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Phuket International Airport (Phuket)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of views, starting with the Melbourne city skyline, followed by the dramatic volcanic chains of Java and the iconic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay on the final approach into Phuket.
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Melbourne CBD
Immediately after takeoff, enjoy panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne city skyline.
South Australian Salt Lakes
Glistening white and pink salt pans that create a surreal, geometric landscape in the Australian interior.
Javanese Volcanoes
Clear views of Indonesia's Ring of Fire, including the smoking peaks of Mount Bromo and Semeru on Java.
Phang Nga Bay
The highlight of the trip; spectacular limestone cliffs and emerald waters visible during the descent into Phuket.
Phuket Northern Coast
Views of Sirinat National Park and the lush tropical greenery of the island just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for volcano enthusiasts; the flight path often tracks parallel to the Indonesian archipelago, offering clear views of active peaks. For the best arrival experience, the right side typically provides the most iconic views of the Thai islands. Book a window seat away from the wing to ensure the volcanic peaks aren't obstructed during the mid-flight cruise.
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Great Sandy Desert
Stunning aerial views of the vast, rusted-red sand dunes and ancient geological formations of Western Australia.
Kimberley Coastline
The dramatic point where the deep red Australian earth meets the vivid turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean near Broome.
Andaman Sea Sunset
On late afternoon flights, the left side provides a front-row seat to spectacular tropical sunsets over the open water.
Shipping Lanes
Observe the busy maritime traffic entering the Malacca Strait as you transit between Indonesia and Thailand.
Choose the left side for afternoon departures to enjoy a long, uninterrupted sunset over the Indian Ocean. It is also excellent for observing the unique 'horizontal waterfalls' and rugged terrain of the Kimberley region mid-flight. Ensure you have your camera ready about 4 hours into the flight for the Australian coastline exit.
Get eSIMs for Australia
Get eSIMs for ThailandDistance: 7,013 km (4,358 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 15 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: HKT (8.1132, 98.316902)
Route Type: International
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