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MLA → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Malta International Airport (Malta) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the departure over Valletta's historic harbors, a glimpse of the Sardinian coast, and the most iconic views of the Balearic Islands and the Spanish Mediterranean shoreline.
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Valletta & Grand Harbour
Unmatched views of Malta's capital, featuring its 16th-century fortifications and deep blue natural harbors.
Southern Sardinia
The rugged cliffs and mountainous terrain of the Italian island's southern tip as you cross the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Mallorca
Panoramic views of the largest Balearic island, including the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Valencia Port
A clear view of Spain's third-largest city, including the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
Serranía de Cuenca
Deep river canyons and unique limestone karst formations in the highlands of east-central Spain.
Sit on the right for the best lighting during morning flights, as the sun remains on the opposite side. This side is also preferred for the approach into Madrid-Barajas; if the flight approaches from the north, you will see the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains and the iconic Terminal 4 architecture. During winter, look for snow on the peaks of the Sistema Ibérico.
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Islet of Filfla
A protected, flat-topped limestone islet visible shortly after takeoff from Malta's southern coast.
Ibiza and Formentera
Clear views of the 'White Isle' and the turquoise salt pans of Formentera in the Balearic archipelago.
Costa Blanca Coastline
The dramatic transition from the deep blue Mediterranean to the white sandy beaches near Denia and Alicante.
Plains of La Mancha
Vast, arid agricultural landscapes famous for the historic windmills of Don Quixote.
Southern Madrid Suburbs
Views of the industrial and residential belt of southern Madrid during the final descent into Barajas.
The left side is ideal for spotting the smaller Balearic islands. On afternoon flights, this side provides a stunning view of the sunset over the Spanish interior, though glare can be intense during the mid-flight crossing of the Mediterranean. Keep an eye out for the unique circular irrigation patterns in the Spanish fields.
Get eSIMs for Malta
Get eSIMs for SpainDistance: 1,655 km (1,028 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min
Departure: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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