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HAM destination photo
MLA destination photo

HAM β†’ MLA

Which side of the plane to sit from Hamburg Airport (Hamburg) to Malta International Airport (Malta)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Alps, the eastern Italian coastline, a prime perspective of Mount Etna, and the iconic Grand Harbour of Valletta upon landing.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
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Hamburg & Alster

Aerial views of the Alster lakes and the historic city center shortly after takeoff.

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Eastern Alps

Dramatic rugged peaks and glaciers across Austria and the South Tyrol region.

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Adriatic Coast

The shimmering turquoise coastline near the Po Delta and the northern Italian beaches.

πŸŒ‹

Mount Etna

A breathtaking view of Europe's most active volcano as you pass the eastern coast of Sicily.

🏰

Grand Harbour

The stunning fortified capital of Valletta and the deep blue harbors of Malta during final descent.

Sit on the left for a front-row seat to Mount Etna as you fly south along the Sicilian coast. For the best lighting, morning flights offer crisp Alpine views, while late afternoon flights provide a golden glow over the Mediterranean. During the approach to MLA (Runway 13), the left side usually faces Valletta’s stunning historic skyline.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
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Hamburg Port

One of the world's largest container ports and the winding Elbe river visible during departure.

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Zugspitze View

Distant views of Germany's highest peak on the horizon while crossing into the Alps.

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Lake Garda

Italy's largest lake tucked beautifully into the southern Alpine foothills.

🏝️

Aeolian Islands

A chain of volcanic islands, including the active Stromboli, rising from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

🌊

Gozo & Comino

Aerial views of Malta's sister islands and the Blue Lagoon just before reaching the main island.

The right side is ideal for spotting Lake Garda and the volcanic Aeolian Islands north of Sicily. Keep your eyes peeled for the rugged coastline of western Sicily. If the plane approaches from the north/northwest, you might catch a glimpse of the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino before the main island of Malta comes into full view.

Top Activities in Malta
Route Information

Distance: 2,007 km (1,247 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 41 min

Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)

Arrival: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)

Route Type: International

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