HomeAURoyal Surprise: Harry and Meghan Make Unexpected Exit from Melbourne Flight

Royal Surprise: Harry and Meghan Make Unexpected Exit from Melbourne Flight

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Passengers who sat near the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they flew business class from Los Angeles to Melbourne were clueless about their famous seatmates until the pair were whisked off the plane.

Prince Harry and Meghan made a discreet arrival in Melbourne, landing on a Qantas commercial flight at 6 a.m. The duo managed to leave the airport without attracting attention, maintaining a private and understated presence.

Such was their low profile that even some fellow travelers were taken aback when they noticed the couple stepping off the plane. “We only realized it was them once we disembarked,” a passenger shared with Today.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex meet and greet the public at the Sydney Opera House on October 16, 2018 in Sydney, Australia.
The couple last visited Australia in 2018 on an official royal tour. (Getty)

“They exited the aircraft quite swiftly,” remarked another traveler, highlighting the couple’s efforts to keep a low-key presence.

Despite their quiet demeanor, a few fortunate passengers were able to engage in conversation with the former royals during the lengthy 15-hour journey.

However some lucky passengers did enjoy a chat with Harry and Meghan during the 15-hour flight.

One woman said she spoke to the Sussexes “about their children” and heard a little about their whirlwind Australian itinerary.

“They were super friendly around the toilet areas,” another added.

This is the first time Prince Harry and Meghan have returned to Australia since their royal exit in 2020.

Harry and Meghan Qantas flight in Melbourne
Harry and Meghan arrived on a commercial in Melbourne on a commercial Qantas flight. (Nine/Today)

It’s also their first visit since their one and only official royal tour Down Under in 2018.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will make appearances in Melbourne and Sydney, where Meghan is scheduled to appear at the Her Best Life Retreat this weekend.

The exclusive event is co-hosted by Gemma O’Neill, host of the Her Best Life podcast and manager to radio star Jackie O Henderson. Tickets started $2699.

It’s one of several ticketed events Harry and Meghan plan to attend on their private trip to Australia, which is not to be confused with an official royal tour.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, at the Project Healthy Minds World Mental Health Day Gala at Spring Studios on October 9, 2025 in New York City.
Harry and Meghan’s visit will reportedly cost Aussie taxpayers. (Variety via Getty Images)

When the duo stepped down from their roles as senior working royals they gave up the right to represent the monarch (then Queen Elizabeth II, now King Charles III) abroad or carry out official royal duties on their behalf.

Harry and Meghan also lost access to royal funding and maintain their visit to Australia will be self-funded.

However, the Sydney Morning Herald reports policing services provided for the couple will be taxpayer-funded.

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