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MXP → DUS
Which side of the plane to sit from Malpensa International Airport (Milano) to Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is marginally superior, offering a spectacular panorama of the Bernese Alps shortly after takeoff, followed by a prime view of the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Valley and the iconic Cologne Cathedral during the descent into Düsseldorf.
Bernese Oberland
Breathtaking views of high-altitude peaks including the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau massifs as you cross Switzerland.
Black Forest
Aerial perspective of the dense, dark evergreen canopy and rolling hills of southwestern Germany.
Middle Rhine Valley
Look for the winding Rhine River and the high concentration of historic castles between Bingen and Koblenz.
Cologne Cathedral
On the final approach, the twin spires of the Kölner Dom are often visible as the flight tracks north past Cologne.
Lake Lucerne
The complex, jagged shape of the Swiss lake surrounded by steep mountain walls is visible during the climb.
Sit on the left for the best view of the Alps' most famous peaks within the first 20 minutes of flight. During the descent, approximately 15 minutes before landing, keep your camera ready for the Rhine River's dramatic bends. Morning flights provide excellent lighting on the western slopes of the mountains without glare.
Lake Maggiore
Immediately after departure from MXP, the aircraft provides a stunning view of the Borromean Islands and the lake's northern tip.
Lake Constance (Bodensee)
Views of the massive lake where Germany, Austria, and Switzerland meet, often appearing as an inland sea.
Central Swiss Alps
Glacial vistas of the Glarus and Uri Alps as the flight progresses north-northwest.
Stuttgart
The urban layout of the Baden-Württemberg capital tucked into its bowl-shaped valley is visible mid-flight.
Ruhr Area
As you enter the Düsseldorf airspace, the industrial landscapes and dense urban sprawl of the Ruhr region come into view.
The right side is ideal for capturing Lake Maggiore right after takeoff. It is also the better side for seeing the full expanse of Lake Constance. If flying in the afternoon, this side will have the sun behind the plane, which is perfect for photography without cabin window reflections.
Distance: 646 km (401 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Arrival: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)
Route Type: International
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