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MXP → OTP
Which side of the plane to sit from Malpensa International Airport (Milano) to Henri Coandă International Airport (Bucharest)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers an unparalleled panorama of the European mountain systems, including a close-up of the Italian Alps and the dramatic Southern Carpathians of Romania.
The Italian Alps
Immediately after takeoff from MXP, enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Lepontine and Rhaetian Alps.
Lake Garda
A clear view of Italy's largest lake, characterized by its deep blue waters and the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Julian Alps
As the flight crosses Slovenia, the rugged limestone peaks of Triglav National Park become visible to the north.
Southern Carpathians
Known as the Transylvanian Alps, these mountains provide a stunning backdrop as the plane enters Romanian airspace.
Ploiești
View the industrial layout and the gateway to the Prahova Valley during the initial descent into the Bucharest region.
For morning flights, the left side avoids direct sun glare, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Alps. Keep your camera ready during the first 20 minutes and the last 30 minutes of the flight for the best mountain vistas. Seasonal snow cover in winter makes the Alpine peaks particularly photogenic.
Milan Cityscape
A view of the Lombardy capital and its iconic skyscrapers shortly after departure, depending on the runway configuration.
Adriatic Coast
Distant views of the northern Adriatic Sea and the Istrian Peninsula as the flight path heads eastward.
Belgrade
The Serbian capital is often visible at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers during the mid-flight segment.
Iron Gates Gorge
The dramatic Danube gorge that forms the border between Serbia and Romania, featuring steep cliffs and river bends.
Wallachian Plain
The vast, fertile agricultural heartland of southern Romania visible during the final approach into Otopeni.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to witness the sunset over the Italian Po Valley and the Balkan Peninsula. It offers the best perspective for tracking the winding course of the Danube River. Look for the lights of Belgrade if flying after dusk.
Distance: 1,365 km (848 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 49 min
Departure: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Arrival: OTP (44.5711111, 26.085)
Route Type: International
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