A modern shopping mall with prominent stores like Chanel, Dior, and Clarins.

$473 Cheap Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)

Photo by Melbourne Airport
Open Photo by Melbourne Airport

Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne (LAX-MEL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $473 for one-way flights and $873 for roundtrip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Alternative airports near Melbourne

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $835 - $1,036 per traveler.

Book with confidence

Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL) at a glance

Travel to Melbourne (MEL) from Los Angeles (LAX) with a selection of airlines offering various options for this international long-haul journey. Compare Melbourne flights from full-service carriers to find the best itinerary that suits your budget and travel plans as you prepare to discover the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods. Check out essential details for flights from Los Angeles International Airport to Tullamarine Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 16 hours non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 7,900 miles (12,710 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $420–$1175, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines for flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL), featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover points include Nadi International Airport (NAN) with approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) with around a 2-hour layover, and Auckland International Airport (AKL) also about 2 hours and 45 minutes. These options provide the flexibility to adjust your itinerary based on price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • Qantas Airways: As a full-service airline, Qantas provides both non-stop and one-stop options. One-way ticket prices generally range from $475 to $2965, making up roughly 30% of departures on this route, with non-stop flights taking about 16 hours.
  • Fiji Airways: This full-service carrier offers one-stop and multi-stop journeys, with one-way fares typically between $420 and $870. It constitutes around 27% of departures for this route, featuring a standard 1-stop flight time of 16 hours and 30 minutes, totaling approximately 19 hours of travel.
  • United: United is a full-service airline that provides both non-stop and one-stop services. Fares for one-way tickets usually range from $420 to $4300, accounting for approximately 26% of departures on this route, with non-stop flights lasting about 16 hours.
  • Delta: Delta, another full-service carrier, offers both non-stop and one-stop flights. Their one-way fares typically span from $525 to $3860, representing around 8% of departures on this route, with non-stop travel taking approximately 16 hours.
  • American Airlines: This full-service airline specializes in non-stop flights, with one-way fares generally ranging from $465 to $2010. American Airlines accounts for about 4% of departures on this route, with an overall journey time of 16 hours.

Travelers flying from Los Angeles to Melbourne have the option to enhance their experience by upgrading their flight. Major airlines such as United, Qantas Airways, and Delta provide business class and premium economy class seating for added comfort.

Best time to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Los Angeles to Melbourne are January, February, and December, when peak temperatures in Melbourne reach up to 68.7°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 53.8°F. For better deals, June usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $577. Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 20 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: June usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $577, roughly 35% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne, with approximately 20 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
MonthTemperatureDemandWeekly FlightsAverage one-way Fare
January68.7°F (20.4°C)High14$1161
February68.0°F (20.0°C)High14$883
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Average11$875
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Average11$1023
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Low11$749
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Average13$577
July48.9°F (9.4°C)Average11$776
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Low13$886
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Low13$1004
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Average12$959
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Average13$922
December64.8°F (18.2°C)High20$880

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative routes from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)

  • Los Angeles to Melbourne (LAX-MEB): Essendon Airport (MEB) lies approximately 5 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL).
  • Burbank to Melbourne (BUR-MEL): Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is located about 18 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
  • Los Angeles to Melbourne (LAX-AVV): Avalon Airport (AVV) is situated roughly 32 miles from Tullamarine Airport (MEL).

How to find the best prices for flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures between 6 PM and midnight tend to be less expensive and are also quite popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday often results in lower prices, while Wednesday remains the most favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Tullamarine Airport from Los Angeles International Airport

Melbourne welcomes travelers from Los Angeles with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Melbourne efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Melbourne, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tullamarine Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tullamarine Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Tullamarine Airport, Broadmeadows Station, a metro station, is located about 4.9 miles away by car, while Essendon Station, a train station, is about 8.5 miles away by car. For maritime travel, Strathmore Seaport, a seaport, is situated approximately 6.8 miles from the airport, also accessible by car.

Los Angeles to Melbourne Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Los Angeles to Melbourne

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne are during the month of July. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

The best time to book a flight from Los Angeles to Melbourne

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Los Angeles to Melbourne: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Los Angeles to Melbourne

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Los Angeles to Melbourne in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $473 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Los Angeles to Melbourne flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Los Angeles to Melbourne airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

*Terms apply.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $473 and cheap return flights $873 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $594 to $8720, and return flights typically cost between $1129 and $10761. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) ticket fares go up or down.

*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

February is the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL), with average round-trip fares around $1,089. This is about 15% lower than the average price throughout the year, as February is a quieter travel month after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months include March and September.

*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

Which airlines fly direct from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

There are 3 airlines offering direct flights from LAX to MEL:

  • Qantas Airways operates around 7 direct flights from LAX to MEL every week
  • United operates around 7 direct flights from LAX to MEL every week
  • Delta operates around 7 direct flights from LAX to MEL every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $1,180. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.

*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

How do I find cheap flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

To find a cheap flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.

What is the best airline to fly with from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

The best airline to fly with from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Alaska Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, United typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from LAX to MEL, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.

What is the best time to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

The best time to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL) is typically in February or March. During these months, you can find return flights at around $1,089, making it a great time to travel as prices are lower and demand is less intense. February offers pleasant weather in Melbourne, while March is ideal for enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.

*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

How many flights per day from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

You can find approximately 2 nonstop flights per day from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) to Tullamarine (MEL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.

What is the earliest flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

The earliest flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Tullamarine Airport (MEL) typically departs at around 12:05 AM, operated by China Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March, April, May, June, September, and October, giving you a late-night option to start your journey to Melbourne. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.

What are the most popular departure times for flights from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

The most popular departure times for flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL) are in the late evening, from 9pm to midnight. About 69% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Qantas Airways, United, and others, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to enjoy a full day in Los Angeles before your flight.

How long does it take to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

Direct flights from LAX to MEL usually take about 16 hours, traveling roughly 7,928 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 50 minutes to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.

Can you fly business or first class from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

Business class is available on flights from LAX to MEL. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Fiji Airways
  • Cathay Pacific
  • American Airlines
  • Qantas Airways
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • Emirates
  • Xiamen Airlines
  • Air New Zealand
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Air China

First class is available with Emirates and Qantas Airways.

How much is a business class flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

A direct, return business class ticket from Los Angeles (LAX) to Melbourne (MEL) typically costs between $9,210 - $14,593. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $5,620 - $10,280 per adult. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) if you opt for a connecting flight.

*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.

How do I earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

What airports do you fly into for Melbourne from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX)?

From Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), you can fly into Orlando Melbourne Intl. (MLB) and Tullamarine (MEL) in Melbourne. Some flights may connect through major hubs like George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Liberty Intl. (EWR), O'Hare Intl. (ORD) before reaching Melbourne. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.

Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.

Is it cheaper to book a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) Melbourne Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.

Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)?

If you booked your Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Los Angeles Intl.
Destination airport
Melbourne Airport
Distance
7,926 miles away
Airlines serving
Qantas Airways, Fiji Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, Alaska Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Japan Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Qatar Airways, United, China Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Air Canada, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Air Tahiti Nui, Emirates, Xiamen Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Finnair, SriLankan Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Malaysia Airlines
Popular airline
Qantas Airways
Roundtrip price
$873
Average flight time
15 hours 55 mins
*Available to One Key members.