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MLA → RIX
Which side of the plane to sit from Malta International Airport (Malta) to Riga International Airport (Riga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the volcanic activity of Mount Etna shortly after departure, followed by the historic Italian west coast including views of Rome and a spectacular traverse over the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Mount Etna
Expect a stunning view of Europe's highest and most active volcano as you fly north past the eastern coast of Sicily.
Rome and the Tyrrhenian Sea
On clear days, the Eternal City and the winding Tiber River can be spotted as the aircraft follows the Italian peninsula.
The Central Alps
A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped Austrian and Southern German Alps, featuring jagged peaks and deep glacial valleys.
Bavarian Countryside
View the rolling green hills and neat agricultural patterns of Southern Germany as you transition into Central Europe.
Latvian Coastline
As you descend into Riga, the left side offers views of the Gulf of Riga and the white sandy beaches of Jurmala.
For the best photography of the Alps and Mount Etna, choose a morning flight to ensure the sun is on the opposite side of the aircraft, reducing glare. The left side is also preferable for catching the sunset on late afternoon flights heading north.
Adriatic Coastline
Enjoy views of the turquoise waters and the myriad of islands along the Croatian coast across the Adriatic Sea.
Venice Lagoon
If the flight path skews slightly east, the unique layout of Venice and its surrounding lagoon can be visible from high altitude.
The Dolomites
The distinctive limestone peaks of the Italian Dolomites offer a dramatic and rugged landscape during the alpine crossing.
Tatra Mountains
Look out for the high, rocky peaks marking the border between Slovakia and Poland, often capped with snow well into spring.
Mazury Lake District
As you approach the Baltics, the vast forested areas of northern Poland and Lithuania are dotted with thousands of shimmering lakes.
The right side is excellent for viewing the sunrise on early morning flights. Keep an eye out for the Daugava River during the final approach into Riga, which often provides a scenic entry into the city's airport environment.
Distance: 2,448 km (1,521 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 16 min
Departure: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)
Arrival: RIX (56.92359924316406, 23.971099853515625)
Route Type: International
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