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ORY destination photo
MLA destination photo

ORYMLA

Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Malta International Airport (Malta)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers spectacular views of the Italian coastline, a potentially close flyby of Mount Etna in Sicily, and the iconic aerial panorama of Valletta and the Grand Harbour upon arrival in Malta.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🛫

Paris Suburbs

View of the Seine river and the sprawling southern outskirts of Paris immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Distant French Alps

On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps are visible on the horizon as you cruise south.

🇮🇹

Tyrrhenian Sea Coast

Stunning views of the Italian western coastline and the Pontine Islands as the flight heads toward Sicily.

🌋

Mount Etna

A prime view of Europe's most active volcano as you cross over or pass the eastern coast of Sicily.

🏛️

Valletta & Grand Harbour

A breathtaking view of the fortified capital of Malta and its historic harbors during the final descent.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. As you approach Malta, look for the distinct star-shaped forts. This side is most likely to see Mount Etna's peak if the flight path hugs the eastern Sicilian coast.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Massif Central

The rugged, volcanic landscape of central France visible during the first half-hour of flight.

🏝️

Corsica & Sardinia

Excellent views of the rugged western coastlines and turquoise waters surrounding these two major islands.

🌊

Mediterranean Expanse

Deep blue vistas of the open sea between the Balearic islands and the Italian coast.

🚤

Gozo & Comino

View of Malta's sister islands, including the famous Blue Lagoon, during the initial descent phase.

The right side is perfect for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Mediterranean. It offers the best perspective of the smaller Maltese islands, Gozo and Comino, before the plane turns to line up with the runway at Luqa.

Top Activities in Malta
Route Information

Distance: 1,738 km (1,080 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 19 min

Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Arrival: MLA (35.857498, 14.4775)

Route Type: International

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