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MXP β CGN
Which side of the plane to sit from Malpensa International Airport (Milano) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a spectacular front-row seat to the highest peaks of the Pennine and Bernese Alps immediately after takeoff, followed by a scenic descent along the Rhine River.
Lake Maggiore
A stunning view of the Borromean Islands and the winding shoreline of this massive pre-alpine lake immediately after departure.
Monte Rosa Massif
The second-highest peak in the Alps and the highest in Switzerland dominates the horizon shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Bernese Oberland
Iconic views of the Eiger, MΓΆnch, and Jungfrau peaks piercing through the clouds in central Switzerland.
Basel & The Rhine
The point where the borders of France, Germany, and Switzerland meet, marked by the distinctive bend in the Rhine River.
Upper Middle Rhine Valley
As you descend towards Cologne, look for the UNESCO-listed valley known for its high density of medieval castles.
Choose the left side for morning flights to ensure the sun illuminates the alpine peaks without glare. Watch the window approximately 10-15 minutes after takeoff for the most dramatic glacier views. During winter, the snow-covered Alps are particularly breathtaking under clear skies.
Lake Como
Depending on the departure path, the distinctive Y-shape of Lake Como is often visible to the east.
Central Swiss Alps
Views of the Glarus Alps and the rugged terrain of eastern Switzerland.
Lake Zurich
A clear view of the city of Zurich and its long, narrow lake stretching southward.
The Black Forest
Fly over the dense, dark evergreen canopy of the Schwarzwald in southwestern Germany.
Frankfurt Skyline
On clear days, the distant skyscrapers of Germany's financial hub can be seen to the east during the mid-flight phase.
The right side is best for afternoon flights to avoid the direct western sun. It offers superior views of the Black Forest's rolling hills. Keep an eye out for the thermal power plants and industrial architecture characteristic of the Ruhr and Rhineland regions during the final approach into CGN.
Distance: 594 km (369 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)
Route Type: International
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