Loading map...
MEL → OOL
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of the Australian Alps mid-flight and the iconic surf beaches of the Gold Coast during the final approach.
Port Phillip Bay
Aerial perspective of the bay and the Mornington Peninsula shortly after takeoff from MEL.
Snowy Mountains
Stunning views of the Australian Alps and Mount Kosciuszko, often snow-capped during winter months.
Byron Bay
The famous Cape Byron Lighthouse and the easternmost point of the Australian mainland are often visible.
Surfers Paradise Skyline
The iconic high-rise buildings lining the beach as the plane descends towards Coolangatta.
Pacific Ocean Coastline
Vast ocean views with the possibility of spotting whale migrations between June and November.
Book a window seat on the right for the iconic 'beach landing' feel. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the Snowy Mountains, while afternoon flights provide a glinting view of the Gold Coast skyscrapers. Ensure you are seated well clear of the wing for the best coastal photography during the descent over northern NSW.
Melbourne CBD
Clear views of the city skyline and the Yarra River if departing to the south before banking north.
Great Dividing Range
Continuous views of the rugged forest-covered mountains extending through Victoria and NSW.
New England Tablelands
Elevated inland plateaus featuring a mix of agricultural land and national parks.
Mount Warning (Wollumbin)
The dramatic central plug of the ancient Tweed Shield Volcano visible during descent into OOL.
Sit on the left for the best views of the Melbourne city center during departure. As you approach the Gold Coast, keep an eye out for the deep greens of the Lamington National Park and the sharp peak of Mt Warning to the west.
Distance: 1,330 km (826 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: OOL (-28.1644001007, 153.505004883)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.