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BRU β MXP
Which side of the plane to sit from Brussels Airport (Brussels) to Malpensa International Airport (Milano)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the most iconic peaks of the Alps, including the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, plus a stunning arrival over Lake Maggiore.
Jura Mountains
The first major mountain ridges encountered after crossing the French border into Switzerland.
Lake Geneva
The massive crescent-shaped lake with views of Geneva and the Jet d'Eau in the distance.
Bernese Oberland
Spectacular views of the Eiger, MΓΆnch, and Jungfrau massifs rising above the clouds.
The Matterhorn
The iconic, isolated pyramid peak is often clearly visible as you cross into Italian airspace.
Monte Rosa Massif
A massive glaciated wall of peaks that dominates the horizon just north of the airport.
Lake Maggiore
Final approach views of the Borromean Islands (Isola Bella and Isola Madre) sitting in the deep blue water.
The right side is essential for mountain lovers. For the best photography, choose a flight departing around noon or early afternoon to get the sun illuminating the southern faces of the Alps. Ensure you have your camera ready 15-20 minutes before landing, as the transition from the high Alps to the Lombardy lakes is very rapid and scenic.
Strasbourg and the Rhine
Aerial views of the European Parliament and the river marking the border between France and Germany.
Glarus Alps
The jagged peaks of the Eastern Swiss Alps and the Tectonic Arena Sardona, a UNESCO site.
Lake Zurich
The long, narrow lake stretching south from Switzerland's largest city.
Lake Como
During the descent into Malpensa, you can often spot the western branch of this famous Y-shaped lake.
Milan Skyline
Distant views of the Unicredit Tower and the CityLife skyscrapers as the plane turns for final approach.
Sit on the left for softer morning light when flying south. It is the better side for seeing the urban layouts of Eastern France and the fringes of the Italian Lake District. Keep an eye out for the Rhine River which acts as a major navigational landmark halfway through the flight.
Distance: 665 km (413 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)
Arrival: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Route Type: International
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