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MXP β HEL
Which side of the plane to sit from Malpensa International Airport (Milano) to Helsinki Vantaa Airport (Helsinki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled view of the highest peaks in the Alps shortly after takeoff from MXP, followed by excellent lighting for the Baltic crossing.
Pennine Alps
Dramatic views of high-altitude glaciers and peaks like the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa shortly after departure.
Lake Maggiore
Stunning aerial perspectives of the Borromean Islands and the transition from Italian plains to mountains.
Berlin Sprawl
The expansive urban layout of the German capital often appears on the left horizon midway through the flight.
Gotland & Γland
The large Swedish islands in the Baltic Sea are frequently visible during the cruise phase.
Baltic Sunset
On evening flights, the left side captures the vibrant colors of the sun setting over Northern Europe.
Book a window seat on the left (usually 'A') for the most dramatic Alpine scenery within the first 20 minutes of flight. For morning departures, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun, providing clearer conditions for photography. In winter, the snow-covered Swiss and German landscapes are particularly striking from this vantage point.
Lake Como
The iconic Y-shaped lake and the luxury villas along its shores are visible if the flight paths slightly east.
Munich Area
Views of the Bavarian capital and the distinctive architecture of the Allianz Arena on clear days.
Polish Coastline
The unique shape of the Hel Peninsula and the port city of GdaΕsk appear as you cross into the Baltic.
Helsinki Archipelago
An incredible mosaic of thousands of islands and rocky outcrops during the final descent into Vantaa.
Finnish Taiga
Dense boreal forests and small hidden lakes characterize the approach into Southern Finland.
The 'F' seats are superior for the arrival into Helsinki, as the aircraft often circles over the Gulf of Finland, providing views of the intricate island networks. During mid-summer flights, the right side benefits from the 'Midnight Sun' effect, where the landscape remains illuminated even late into the evening. Keep your camera ready for the contrast between the Polish coast and the deep blue Baltic.
Distance: 1,950 km (1,212 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 36 min
Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)
Route Type: International
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