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PVG destination photo
MEL destination photo

PVGMEL

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Australian interior, including the vast salt pans of Lake Eyre and the ancient peaks of the Flinders Ranges, along with better views of the Philippine archipelago's western coastlines.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Yangtze Delta

See the sprawling urban landscape and intricate river networks of the Yangtze Delta immediately after takeoff.

🏞️

Palawan & Luzon

Stunning views of the rugged tropical coastlines and dense jungles of the western Philippine islands.

🐊

The Top End

Fly over the vast floodplains and intricate river systems of the Northern Territory near Darwin.

⚪

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

A route highlight; the massive white salt crust of Australia's largest lake, visible for hundreds of miles.

⛰️

Flinders Ranges

Ancient, jagged mountain ridges that glow with deep orange and purple hues during the late afternoon.

🍇

Yarra Valley

Lush vineyards and rolling green hills of rural Victoria visible as the aircraft begins its final approach.

The right side is ideal for avoiding direct sunlight on daytime flights. It offers the best perspective of Lake Eyre and the Flinders Ranges, which are the most geologically interesting features of the journey. Ensure you are seated away from the wing to capture the scale of the Australian outback.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

East China Sea

Glimpse the scattered islands of the Zhoushan Archipelago shortly after departing Shanghai Pudong.

🌋

Mindanao Peaks

Pass by the towering volcanic mountains of the southern Philippines, including the slopes of Mount Apo.

🏝️

Banda Sea Islands

Witness the remote and lush 'Spice Islands' of Indonesia dotting the deep blue tropical waters.

🏜️

Simpson Desert

View the iconic parallel red sand dunes stretching across the heart of the Australian continent.

🌾

Murray River

Observe the winding path of Australia's longest river as it carves through the southern agricultural plains.

Sit on the left side to witness the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean on overnight flights. As you cross the Australian coast near the Top End, the left side provides the first look at the vast desert. Note that morning glare can be intense on this side during southbound daylight legs.

Top Activities in Melbourne
Route Information

Distance: 8,017 km (4,982 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 26 min

Departure: PVG (31.143400192260746, 121.80500030517578)

Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)

Route Type: International

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