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IST → MLA
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Malta International Airport (Malta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular sequence of European landmarks, including the rugged mountains of the Peloponnese, a distant view of Mount Etna, and the iconic arrival over the fortified city of Valletta.
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Dardanelles Strait
View the narrow crossing at Gallipoli, a historic maritime gateway between Europe and Asia Minor.
Peloponnese Mountains
Fly over the rugged Taygetos range, offering jagged limestone peaks and deep green valleys.
Mount Etna
On clear days, the smoking summit of Europe's most active volcano in Sicily is visible to the northwest before the turn to Malta.
Valletta & Grand Harbour
During the standard approach to Runway 13, enjoy a world-class view of the UNESCO-listed Maltese capital and its massive fortifications.
Marsamxett Harbour
See the sleek yachts and historic forts of Sliema and Manoel Island just before touching down.
Sit on the right for the iconic 'Valletta shot' during landing. For sunset flights, this side experiences beautiful golden hour colors over the Ionian Sea, though window glare can be an issue. Use a polarizer if photographing the turquoise waters around the Maltese coast.
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Sea of Marmara
Immediately after takeoff from IST, witness the busy shipping lanes connecting the Black Sea to the Aegean.
Cyclades Islands
Glimpse the southern clusters of Greek islands like Milos and Kythira amidst the deep blue Aegean.
Cape Matapan
The southernmost point of mainland Greece, featuring dramatic cliffs and the entrance to the Messenian Gulf.
Filfla Islet
As you descend into Malta, look for this small, uninhabited limestone plateau rising sharply from the sea.
Early morning flights are best on this side to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. During winter, look for the snow-capped peaks of the Cretan mountains far to the south if the visibility is high.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for MaltaDistance: 1,377 km (856 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 50 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)
Route Type: International
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