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MIM → MEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Merimbula Airport (Merimbula) to Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning panoramic view of the rugged Sapphire Coast and the expansive Gippsland Lakes system, hugging the coastline for a significant portion of the flight.
Sapphire Coast
Breathtaking views of Merimbula Bay and the deep blue waters of the Tasman Sea immediately after takeoff.
Croajingolong National Park
Ancient wilderness coastline featuring remote beaches and rocky headlands near the NSW/VIC border.
Gippsland Lakes
Australia's largest inland waterway system, including the narrow silt jetties of the Mitchell River.
Ninety Mile Beach
A seemingly endless stretch of golden sand separating the Gippsland Lakes from the ocean.
Port Phillip Bay
Panoramic views of the Mornington Peninsula and the bay's turquoise shallows during the descent.
Book an 'A' seat for consistent ocean views. Morning flights are spectacular as the sun rises over the water, though late afternoon provides a beautiful soft light on the coastal cliffs. Keep an eye out for Wilsons Promontory in the distance to the south.
Mount Imlay
A prominent peak near Eden that dominates the skyline shortly after departure from Merimbula.
Victorian Alps
Distant views of the Great Dividing Range and the rugged high country to the north.
Latrobe Valley
Industrial landscape featuring the massive open-cut coal mines and power stations near Traralgon.
Yarra Valley
The lush, green patchwork of Victoria's premier wine region as the plane approaches the city.
Melbourne CBD
Excellent views of the city's skyscrapers if the flight approaches MEL from the north or east.
Choose an 'F' or 'K' seat to observe the inland geography. This side is preferable in the late afternoon to avoid direct sun glare from the ocean. Look for the white steam plumes of the power stations as a landmark for being halfway to Melbourne.
Distance: 455 km (283 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 46 min
Departure: MIM (-36.9085998535, 149.901000977)
Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Route Type: Domestic
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