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SAW → MXP
Which side of the plane to sit from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Istanbul) to Malpensa International Airport (Milano)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the majestic Alps and the stunning Italian Lake District during the descent into Milan.
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Istanbul Panorama
Depending on takeoff direction, a stunning view of the Bosphorus bridges and the historical peninsula.
Balkan Mountains
The rolling green ridges of the Stara Planina range crossing through Bulgaria and Serbia.
Julian & Dolomite Alps
Breathtaking snow-capped peaks and jagged limestone formations as you cross into Italy.
Lake Garda
The deep blue expanse of Italy's largest lake, framed by mountains at its northern end.
Lake Como
The famous Y-shaped lake and the surrounding luxury villas visible during the descent.
Monte Rosa Massif
A close-up view of the second highest peak in the Alps located just north-west of Malpensa.
The right side is the premier choice for mountain lovers. For morning flights, this side remains in the shade, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Alps and Italian Lakes. Watch closely during the last 30 minutes of the flight; the transition from the Dolomites to Lake Como and finally Monte Rosa is spectacular.
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Sea of Marmara
Aerial view of the busy shipping lanes and the Princes' Islands shortly after takeoff from SAW.
Dalmatian Coast
The rugged shoreline of Croatia with its numerous islands and turquoise Adriatic waters.
Venice Lagoon
On clear days, the distinct shape of Venice and its surrounding islands can be spotted to the north-west.
Po Valley Cities
The dense urban grid of Northern Italian cities like Verona, Vicenza, and Brescia passing underneath.
Milan City Center
A distant view of the Duomo and the city's modern skyscrapers during the final approach pattern.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the warm glow of the sun setting over the Mediterranean. It provides better views of the Croatian coastline if the flight path stays slightly south. Keep an eye out for the unique geography of the Venetian Lagoon about 40 minutes before landing.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for ItalyDistance: 1,742 km (1,082 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 19 min
Departure: SAW (40.898601532, 29.3092002869)
Arrival: MXP (45.6306, 8.728110000000001)
Route Type: International
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