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PEK → MXP
Which side of the plane to sit from Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing) to Malpensa International Airport (Milano)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers unparalleled views of the high Alps during the descent and better lighting throughout the journey across the Eurasian landmass.
Lake Baikal
The world's deepest lake, often visible as a massive blue crescent depending on the northern track.
Siberian Taiga
Endless expanses of coniferous forests and winding, frozen river systems.
Ural Mountains
The dramatic geographic border dividing the continents of Asia and Europe.
The High Alps
A spectacular close-up of the Swiss and Italian Alps, including glaciers and jagged peaks like Monte Rosa.
Lake Maggiore
A stunning pre-Alpine lake located just north of Malpensa airport during final approach.
The right side is the clear winner for scenery. It offers softer lighting for photography and provides the best angle for the descent over the Alps. Keep your camera ready approximately 45 minutes before landing. In winter, the snow-covered Siberian landscape is particularly mesmerizing under the low northern sun.
The Great Wall
Portions of the Great Wall near Beijing are often visible shortly after departure if the weather is clear.
Gobi Desert
Vast, orange-hued dunes and harsh desert landscapes of Inner Mongolia.
The Caspian Sea
The southern shoreline and deep blue waters of the world's largest inland body of water.
Carpathian Mountains
The rugged, forested ridges of Central and Eastern Europe.
Milan Cityscape
Distant views of the Milan skyline including the Duomo if the flight enters from the southeast.
Sit on the left if you want to see the Great Wall during takeoff. However, be prepared for significant sun glare during the middle of the flight as you head west. During the descent, the left side provides a better view of the industrial Po Valley and the city of Milan if the airport is operating on a southern approach.
Distance: 8,092 km (5,028 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 31 min
Departure: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Arrival: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Route Type: International
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