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MEL → ZQN
Which side of the plane to sit from Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne) to Queenstown International Airport (Queenstown International)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is widely considered the superior choice for this route because it offers the most direct and expansive views of the Southern Alps, including the towering peak of Mount Aspiring, during the critical descent phase into Queenstown.
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Melbourne Skyline
Catch views of the CBD and Port Phillip Bay as the plane climbs out of Melbourne heading southeast.
Southern Alps Entrance
Be the first to see the snow-capped spine of the South Island as the aircraft crosses the coastline from the Tasman Sea.
Mount Aspiring
Direct views of Tititea / Mount Aspiring, the highest peak in the region, often visible during the initial descent.
Lake Wakatipu North
Breathtaking views of the upper reaches of the lake and the surrounding glacial valleys before the final landing turn.
For morning flights, the left side is shaded, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Southern Alps without window glare. Ensure you are looking out about 30 minutes before arrival as the transition from ocean to mountains happens quickly and spectacularly. Seasonal snow cover is most dramatic from June to October.
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Bass Strait Coast
Views of the rugged Gippsland coastline and the scattered islands of the Bass Strait during the first hour of flight.
Lakes Wanaka and Hawea
Spot the deep blue waters of these iconic alpine lakes as the flight path begins its steep descent into the mountain valleys.
The Remarkables
An incredibly close perspective of the jagged Remarkables mountain range as the plane aligns with the runway for landing.
Kawarau Gorge
Observe the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River winding through the rocky canyon floor just moments before touchdown.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to capture the 'Golden Hour' light hitting the Remarkables range. This side also offers a better view of the airport's unique valley location during the final banking maneuvers. Be prepared for occasional turbulence over the Alps, so keep your camera steady.
Book Hotels in Queenstown InternationalDistance: 2,145 km (1,333 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 52 min
Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Arrival: ZQN (-45.0210990906, 168.738998413)
Route Type: International
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