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IST → MXP
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Malpensa International Airport (Milano)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a world-class scenic experience, featuring the stunning Croatian coastline, a high-altitude view of Venice, and a spectacular approach past the Italian Lakes and the snow-capped Alps.
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Black Sea Coast
The dramatic meeting of the Turkish coastline and the Black Sea shortly after departure from IST.
Balkan Mountains
Aerial views of the Stara Planina and the rugged interior terrain of Bulgaria and Serbia.
Dalmatian Archipelago
The stunning turquoise waters and hundreds of islands along the Croatian coast near Zadar.
Venice and Lagoon
The unmistakable 'S' shape of the Grand Canal and the historic center of Venice visible from cruising altitude.
Lake Garda
Italy's largest lake, featuring the narrow northern fjord and the southern Sirmione peninsula.
The High Alps
Breathtaking views of the Monte Rosa massif and the Swiss-Italian border peaks during descent.
The right side is the clear winner for this route. For the best photography of the Alps and Venice, choose a morning flight when the sun is behind you. Be alert about 20-30 minutes before landing, as this is when the most iconic Italian landmarks like Lake Como and the Alpine foothills appear.
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Istanbul Skyline
Aerial view of the Bosphorus and the sprawling historical peninsula of Istanbul during takeoff.
Adriatic Expanse
Wide-angle views of the deep blue Adriatic Sea as the flight crosses from the Balkans to Italy.
Apennine Mountains
The rugged spine of Italy visible to the south as you traverse the Po Valley.
Po Valley Agriculture
Intricate patterns of Italian farmland and the winding Po River during the mid-flight cruise.
Sit on the left for softer lighting during evening flights to avoid the harsh western sun. While it offers fewer landmarks, the left side provides a clearer view of the Milan city center and the San Siro stadium if the approach path enters Malpensa from the south.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for ItalyDistance: 1,682 km (1,045 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 15 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Route Type: International
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