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LIN destination photo
LHR destination photo

LINLHR

Which side of the plane to sit from Milano Linate Airport (Milan) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route as it offers the iconic close-up view of Mont Blanc during the Alpine crossing and a breathtaking aerial tour of Central London landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben on the standard approach into Heathrow.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
⛰️

Mont Blanc Massif

The highest peak in the Alps often appears spectacularly close as the flight crosses the Franco-Italian border.

🏙️

Paris Cityscape

On clear days, the Eiffel Tower and the sprawl of the French capital are visible in the distance to the west.

🌊

English Channel

The crossing from the French coast toward the Kent countryside offers views of the busy shipping lanes.

🎡

Central London

During westerly arrivals, you get a direct view of the Shard, London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.

🏟️

Wembley Stadium

The iconic arch is a landmark indicator that the plane is on its final descent into Heathrow.

Book a window seat on the left (Port) side and try to fly during the late afternoon. The sun will be behind you or to the side, illuminating the Alps and the London skyline without glare. On the approach to LHR, if the wind is from the west (Runway 27), this side provides the most famous 'River Thames' view of the city center.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
💧

Lake Como

Immediately after takeoff from Linate, the stunning Y-shaped lake is visible to the north.

🏔️

Matterhorn

The distinctive pyramid-shaped peak can be spotted in the distance amongst the Swiss Alps.

🍾

Champagne Region

Flight paths often track over the rolling vineyards and historic cathedrals near Reims.

🐚

White Cliffs of Dover

View the iconic chalk cliffs and the Port of Dover as you enter British airspace.

🏢

Canary Wharf

See the gleaming skyscrapers of London's financial district and the O2 Arena during the eastern approach.

The right side is excellent for views of the Italian Lakes immediately after departure. It is also the better side for seeing the Thames Estuary and the eastern docklands of London. If the flight is forced to circle in a 'stack' over Biggin Hill, this side can offer varied views of the English countryside.

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Route Information

Distance: 981 km (610 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 38 min

Departure: LIN (45.445099, 9.27674)

Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Route Type: International

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