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MEL → TSV
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Townsville Airport (Townsville)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for this northbound route as it offers the potential for stunning coastal views, the Great Barrier Reef's inner fringes, and a panoramic perspective of Magnetic Island during the approach into Townsville.
Melbourne CBD
Spectacular views of the city skyline, the MCG, and Port Phillip Bay if the flight path tracks east after departure.
Victorian Alps
Distal views of the snow-capped peaks of the Great Dividing Range during the winter months.
Tablelands
The lush, green gorges and high plateaus of the New England Tablelands in northern New South Wales.
Magnetic Island
An iconic view of the granite boulders and turquoise bays of Magnetic Island just before touchdown.
Coral Sea
Glittering views of Cleveland Bay and the inner Great Barrier Reef when the wind necessitates an approach from the north.
Request a window seat on the right for the best arrival experience. Morning flights are particularly good as the sun illuminates the coastline. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight for the best reef and island shots.
Melbourne Suburbs
Aerial views of Melbourne's northern sprawl and the volcanic plains of western Victoria shortly after takeoff.
The Riverina
Geometric patterns of agricultural land and irrigation networks around the Murray River border.
Arid Interior
Dramatic color shifts as the landscape transitions into the red earth and scrubland of western New South Wales.
Hervey Range
The rugged terrain of the Great Dividing Range's northern section as the plane begins its descent.
The left side is ideal for sunset flights to avoid direct glare while watching the landscape turn gold. Look for the massive Burdekin River winding through the dry tropical landscape as you approach Townsville from the south.
Distance: 2,057 km (1,278 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 45 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Route Type: Domestic
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