Journey from the UK
How long is the flight to Australia?
Allow 21 to 24 hours to Sydney or Melbourne, with one stop in Asia or the Gulf. Perth has non-stop flights of around 17 hours. Sydney is 11 hours ahead in UK winter and 9 ahead in UK summer.
- Under 3 hours
- 3 to 6 hours
- 6 to 10 hours
- 10 hours or more
A stopover of a night or two in Singapore, Dubai or Hong Kong breaks the journey and softens the jet lag.
Getting there
- Perth10 hours or more
Non-stop from London, about 17 hours.
- Sydney and Melbourne10 hours or more
One stop, about 21 to 24 hours.
- Brisbane and Cairns10 hours or more
One or two stops.
The journey at a glance
Straight-line estimate for a direct flight from Heathrow. Real flights often take longer.
Popular stopover routes
- Via Singapore: good for Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
- Via Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi: many daily connections.
- Via Hong Kong: convenient for Sydney and Brisbane.
- Non-stop to Perth: about 17 hours, then domestic flights onward.
Coping with the longest trip
This is the furthest you can fly from the UK. Pick flights that let you sleep at your destination's night time, drink plenty of water, and walk the aisle regularly. A night or two's stopover each way makes a real difference, especially with children.
Before you go
- Book an aisle seat and walk around every few hours.
Stay and do
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