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MAD → MXP
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Malpensa International Airport (Milano)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the snow-capped peaks of the High Alps during the descent, along with early views of the Guadarrama mountains leaving Madrid.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Just after takeoff from Madrid, the rugged peaks of the Central System appear clearly to the north.
Pyrenees Mountains
On the distant horizon, the natural border between Spain and France shows off its jagged, high-altitude ridge.
The High Alps
Dramatic views of the Western Alps, including potential sightings of Mont Blanc, as the flight nears the Italian border.
Turin Landscape
As the plane enters Italian airspace, the city of Turin and the surrounding Piedmont plains are visible.
Ticino Valley
The final approach into Malpensa showcases the lush green valleys and river systems of Lombardy.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic Alpine scenery. Morning flights provide excellent front-lighting on the mountains. In winter, the contrast of snow against the dark rock is spectacular during the descent.
Mediterranean Coastline
Aerial views of the Gulf of Lion and the transition from the Spanish to French coastlines.
French Riviera
The sparkling blue waters of the Côte d'Azur, including glimpses of Cannes and Nice, appear during the mid-flight segment.
Genoa & Liguria
The Italian 'Italian Riviera' with its steep cliffs and the bustling port of Genoa are visible before heading inland.
Apennine Mountains
The northern end of Italy's backbone mountain range is visible as the plane turns toward Milan.
Lake Maggiore
Depending on the landing pattern, the southern tip of this massive glacial lake may be visible to the right.
The right side is ideal for coastal enthusiasts. Afternoon flights are particularly beautiful as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, casting a golden glow on the French and Italian coastlines.
Distance: 1,150 km (715 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 32 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Route Type: International
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