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TSV → MEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Townsville Airport (Townsville) to Melbourne International Airport (Melbourne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior mix of coastal views upon departure, constant vistas of the Great Dividing Range, and the iconic Melbourne skyline during the final approach.
Bowling Green Bay
Immediately after takeoff, catch the turquoise waters and wetlands of the national park south of Townsville.
Great Dividing Range
Marvel at the rugged peaks and deep valleys of Australia's most substantial mountain range to the east.
Darling Downs
Observe the vibrant green and gold agricultural patchwork quilts near the Queensland and New South Wales border.
Australian Alps
In winter months, look for the snow-dusted peaks of the Victorian High Country appearing on the distant horizon.
Melbourne Cityscape
Enjoy a spectacular view of the CBD skyscrapers, MCG, and Port Phillip Bay during the southern approach.
Book an 'A' seat for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun glare. This side is essential for seeing the urban sprawl of Melbourne and the bay if the aircraft approaches from the north. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the best city views.
Inland Outback
Witness the vast, rust-colored expanses of the Queensland interior and the transition to the semi-arid Mallee.
Murray River
Spot the iconic, winding brown ribbon of Australia's longest river as it marks the border between NSW and Victoria.
Wheatbelt Plains
See the massive, geometric patterns of the grain-growing regions in northern Victoria.
Volcanic Cones
Look for ancient, extinct volcanic craters and stony rises as the plane enters the Western District of Victoria.
Outback Sunset
On late afternoon flights, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun setting over the desert horizon.
Choose the right side for afternoon flights to enjoy the sunset over the outback. It provides a great perspective of the vast Murray-Darling Basin. Look for the distinctive 'You Yangs' granite peaks as you approach Melbourne from the north, which are easily identifiable landmarks.
Distance: 2,057 km (1,278 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 45 min
Departure: TSV (-19.252500534057617, 146.76499938964844)
Arrival: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)
Route Type: Domestic
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