These two planes took off from Melbourne YMML heading for Perth YPPH less than 15 minutes apart.
Expected flight time for the Virgin plane is 1 hr 36 longer
QF485 took a normal Great Circle Route over the Great Australlian Bight. 1464 NM 3hr 38 min at 40,000
and VOZ679 is flying a much longer circuitous route 2009 NM 5hr 14 min at 40,000 ft
I have never seen a route from Melb to Perth via central Western Australia before.
Is there any explanation please?
S.