If you’re planning a trip from Perth to Melbourne, you’re likely looking for the most affordable and convenient flight options. As two of Australia’s most iconic cities, the route between Perth and Melbourne is one of the busiest in the country, with thousands of travellers making the journey each week for business, holidays, and family visits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to find cheap flights Perth to Melbourne
How long the flight takes, what return airfares typically cost, and which airlines offer the best value for your money.
Why Perth to Melbourne Is a Popular Flight Route
Perth and Melbourne are separated by over 2,700 kilometres of open land, making air travel the fastest and most efficient way to get between the two cities. While a road trip might appeal to some, it’s not practical for most people, especially when time is limited. Flights from Perth to Melbourne are frequent and well-serviced by both full-service airlines and budget carriers.
Whether you’re heading to Melbourne for business meetings in the CBD, a cultural weekend in the laneways, or to catch a game at the MCG, flying is the easiest way to get there. It’s no surprise that millions of Australians search for terms like “cheap flight tickets from Perth to Melbourne” and “cheap flights Perth to Melbourne Australia” every year.
How to Find Cheap Flight Tickets from Perth to Melbourne
Booking cheap flights from Perth to Melbourne starts with knowing when and how to look. Here are some proven tips:
Be Flexible with Dates
The price of flights can vary dramatically depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the time of day. Flying midweek or during off-peak seasons (like late autumn or early spring) often results in lower airfares.
Compare Platforms
Use multiple flight comparison sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Expedia to check a broad range of ticket prices. Searching terms like “plane tickets Perth to Melbourne” or “air ticket Perth to Melbourne” will help you uncover more deals.
Sign Up for Alerts
Many travel sites let you set fare alerts. This way, you’ll be notified when there’s a price drop on your preferred route.
Look at Budget Airlines
Jetstar, Rex, and sometimes Virgin Australia offer lower-cost flights, especially for early bookings. These carriers often feature the best deals for those searching for cheap flights Perth to Melbourne.
Avoid Peak Booking Days
Booking on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can be cheaper than booking over weekends. Also, avoid travelling during school holidays or public holidays if you can.
Return Flights & What to Expect in Terms of Airfares
If you’re flying round-trip, booking your Perth to Melbourne return ticket in advance usually helps you secure better deals. Airlines typically offer discounts when you book both legs of your journey together.
On average, a round-trip or return airfare from Perth to Melbourne can cost between AUD $220 and $400. During airline sales or off-peak seasons, you can sometimes find return flights for as low as AUD $180.
When searching for deals, use keyword combinations like “cheap flights Perth to Melbourne return” or “airfares Perth to Melbourne return” to ensure you’re seeing round-trip prices. Always double-check whether baggage, seat selection, or other extras are included.
How Long Is the Flight from Perth to Melbourne?
Many travellers ask, “How long is the flight from Perth to Melbourne?” The answer varies slightly depending on factors like airline, weather, and air traffic. However, most direct flights take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours from takeoff to landing. This flight covers a distance of about 2,700 kilometres, making it one of the longest domestic routes in Australia. If you’re flying from Perth Airport, plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure.
For a smooth start to your trip, booking reliable Perth Airport transfers can help you avoid last-minute stress and ensure timely arrival.
Key info on distance and duration:
- Flying time from Perth to Melbourne: Approximately 3h 35m
- Flight time from Melbourne to Perth Australia (return): Slightly longer due to headwinds
- Perth to Melbourne distance flight: Roughly 2,700 kilometres
While this is one of the longest domestic routes in Australia, it’s still far more time-efficient than driving, which would take more than 30 hours.
Airlines Offering Flights from Perth to Melbourne
There are multiple airlines that operate direct flights between Perth and Melbourne. Depending on your budget, timing, and travel preferences, you can choose from full-service or low-cost carriers:
- Qantas: Australia’s flagship airline offers comfort, meals, and checked baggage as standard. Great for business travel or those who want more inclusions.
- Virgin Australia: Competitive pricing with optional extras. Offers a balance between budget and full-service.
- Jetstar: A favourite for budget-conscious travellers. Basic fares are low, with optional extras.
- Rex Airlines: Regional Express is a rising star in domestic travel, often providing great value on the “Per to Mel” route.
Use variations like “tickets to Melbourne from Perth” or “Perth to Victoria flights” when searching on airline websites or aggregators.
Tips for Booking Your Airfare Smartly
Beyond just comparing prices, booking smart means knowing what’s included in budget fares and choosing flight times that suit you. After securing your ticket, searching for a taxi near me ensures a smooth ride to the airport.
Book Direct vs Aggregators
While aggregators like Skyscanner show many options, always check the airline’s website directly for exclusive online discounts.
Check Inclusions
A cheap ticket might not include a carry-on bag or checked luggage. Factor in total cost before choosing the lowest fare.
Consider Flight Times
Sometimes, the cheapest flights depart very early or late. Make sure the timing fits your schedule.
Redeem Points or Rewards
If you’re a frequent flyer, you may be able to use your rewards or credit card points to reduce airfare costs.
Final Thoughts: Fly Smart from Perth to Melbourne
Finding cheap flights from Perth to Melbourne doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand how the market shifts, when to book, and which airlines offer the best value, you’ll be in a great position to grab a bargain. With numerous daily departures and competitive fares, there’s plenty of flexibility to match your plans and budget.
And once you’ve scored that perfect flight deal, don’t leave your airport ride to chance. Universal Cabs Taxi Company, one of Perth’s most trusted taxi services, takes the stress out of getting to the terminal.
With reliable, on-time Perth Airport transfers, friendly drivers, and clean, comfortable vehicles, they’ll make sure your journey starts on the right foot—calm, easy, and right on schedule. Book ahead and travel with total peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much are plane tickets from Perth to Melbourne?
A: Prices vary depending on time of year and airline, but one-way fares typically start around AUD $99, with return flights ranging between AUD $220 and $400.
Q: Which airlines offer cheap flights from Perth to Melbourne?
A: Jetstar and Rex are usually the most budget-friendly, but Virgin Australia and Qantas often have sales worth checking.
Q: How long is the flight from Melbourne to Perth?
A: On average, it’s about 3 hours and 45 minutes. Flights from Perth to Melbourne are slightly shorter.
Q: Is it better to buy one-way or return tickets?
A: Return tickets are often cheaper when purchased together. They also offer more flexibility if your dates are fixed.
Q: How far is Perth from Melbourne by air?
A: The flight distance is about 2,700 km, making it one of the longest domestic routes in Australia.
