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ARN β MLA
Which side of the plane to sit from Stockholm-Arlanda Airport (Stockholm) to Malta International Airport (Malta)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views of the Alps, the right side is generally superior on this route as it provides a front-row seat to the jagged Dolomites and the dramatic volcanic islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea, including Stromboli and the Lipari group, before approaching Malta.
Lake VΓ€ttern
The deep blue waters of Sweden's second-largest lake provide a striking landmark during the initial southward transit over Scandinavia.
The Dolomites
The iconic jagged limestone peaks of the Italian Alps offer some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the world.
Stromboli & Aeolian Islands
Watch for the perfectly conical volcano of Stromboli rising directly out of the sea, often seen trailing a plume of smoke.
Palermo and Northern Sicily
Detailed views of the rugged Sicilian coastline and the city of Palermo as the aircraft crosses from the Tyrrhenian to the Mediterranean.
Gozo and Comino
Clear views of Malta's sister islands and the famous Blue Lagoon just before the final approach into Luqa Airport.
The right side is ideal for morning departures to avoid direct sunlight and for afternoon flights to enjoy golden hour over the Mediterranean. Keep your camera ready about 45-60 minutes before landing for the volcanic islands. This side also offers the most consistent views of the Maltese islands' western cliffs during the descent.
Stockholm Archipelago
Breathtaking views of the thousands of forested islands that make up the Swedish capital's coastal fringe shortly after takeoff.
Hohe Tauern Alps
A panorama of the eastern Austrian Alps, featuring snow-capped peaks and deep glacial valleys as you cross Central Europe.
Adriatic Coastline
Vibrant turquoise waters along the Italian coast near Ancona and the Gargano Peninsula may be visible depending on the flight path.
Mount Etna
As the flight descends toward Malta, Europe's most active volcano dominates the Sicilian skyline to the east.
Valletta Harbor
If landing from the north on Runway 13, you will get a spectacular view of the historic Grand Harbour and the fortified capital city.
For morning flights, the sun will be on this side of the aircraft, which can cause significant glare and make photography difficult. However, it is the better side for capturing the scale of the Stockholm archipelago during departure and seeing the majestic silhouette of Mt. Etna during the final 20 minutes of the flight.
Distance: 2,657 km (1,651 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 33 min
Departure: ARN (59.65190124511699, 17.918600082397)
Arrival: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)
Route Type: International
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