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MXP → CUN
Which side of the plane to sit from Malpensa International Airport (Milano) to Cancún International Airport (Cancun)?
Left Side of the Plane
While both sides offer stunning views, the Left Side is superior for the spectacular arrival into the Caribbean. You will get a front-row seat to the turquoise reefs of the Bahamas and a perfect angle of the Cancun Hotel Zone during the final approach.
Ligurian Coastline
Upon departure and initial climb, enjoy views of the Italian Riviera and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
The Pyrenees
Depending on the specific ATC track, the jagged peaks separating France and Spain may be visible to the south.
The Bahamas
As the flight nears the Americas, the stunning contrast of deep blue ocean and neon-turquoise shallow reefs around the Exuma islands is visible.
Northern Cuba
The flight often tracks just north of the Cuban coastline, offering views of the keys and the Varadero peninsula.
Cancun Hotel Zone
On the standard arrival into CUN, the left side typically looks directly down onto the '7' shaped sandbar of the luxury hotel district.
Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Since this is a westbound flight, the sun will be on the left (south) side for most of the journey; keep your window shade down during the mid-Atlantic crossing to avoid glare, but open it 90 minutes before landing for the Bahamas. The transition from deep Atlantic blue to Caribbean turquoise is best captured from this side.
The Western Alps
Immediately after take-off from MXP, you will see the massive snow-capped peaks of the Pennine Alps and potentially Mont Blanc.
French Countryside
Clear views of the mosaic-like farmlands of central France and the rugged coastline of Brittany before hitting the Atlantic.
Bermuda Triangle
While mostly open ocean, the flight path often passes near the northern edge of this legendary maritime region.
Florida Coastline
If the jet stream pushes the flight north, you may see the Miami skyline and the sprawling Everglades to the right.
Yucatan Jungle
During descent, look out over the vast, dense green canopy of the Yucatan Peninsula stretching toward the horizon.
The right side is ideal for the first 30 minutes of the flight to see the Alps. It also stays in the shade for the duration of the flight, making it much better for photography without sun glare on the window. Watch for the 'Green Flash' at sunset if your flight timing coincides with the evening arrival in Mexico.
Distance: 8,771 km (5,450 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 19 min
Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Route Type: International
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