Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of the Alps are more dramatic and immediate than landing views, and the Alps are genuinely spectacular. The landing approach is scenic but more urban-focused; the takeoff climb offers unobstructed mountain scenery within the first 15 minutes.
Flown LIN to LAX? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Milan to Los Angeles is 6,052 miles (9,739 km), a flight of about 11 hours 30 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Alps (Mont Blanc region visible from high altitude), then traverses the Atlantic Ocean for 7+ hours with no major landmarks. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains become visible on the horizon 1-2 hours before LAX descent. The Sierra Nevada and Central Valley of California appear 45-60 minutes before landing.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIN
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Alps immediately after departure. Linate's runway 36L/18R points northeast, so climbing aircraft bank right toward the Alps, which dominate the northern horizon within minutes of takeoff.
Landing at LAX
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during descent into LAX. Typical approach vectors bring aircraft over the Pacific coast and Santa Monica Bay from the west, then turn inland. Left-side passengers see the coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, and the Los Angeles basin sprawl.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Linate (LIN) to Los Angeles International (LAX)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Milan to Los Angeles. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff views of the Alps are more dramatic and immediate than landing views, and the Alps are genuinely spectacular. The landing approach is scenic but more urban-focused; the takeoff climb offers unobstructed mountain scenery within the first 15 minutes.
What can I see during takeoff from Linate in Milan?
During takeoff from Linate (LIN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Alps immediately after departure. Linate's runway 36L/18R points northeast, so climbing aircraft bank right toward the Alps, which dominate the northern horizon within minutes of takeoff. Notable sights include: Southern Alps (Bergamasc Alps), Lake Como, Brianza foothills, Po River valley.
What can I see when landing at Los Angeles International in Los Angeles?
When landing at Los Angeles International (LAX), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during descent into LAX. Typical approach vectors bring aircraft over the Pacific coast and Santa Monica Bay from the west, then turn inland. Left-side passengers see the coastline, Santa Monica Mountains, and the Los Angeles basin sprawl. Notable sights include: Pacific Ocean coastline, Santa Monica Bay, Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles urban sprawl.
How long is the flight from Milan to Los Angeles?
The flight from Linate (LIN) to Los Angeles International (LAX) takes about 11 hours 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 6,052 miles (9,739 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Milan to Los Angeles flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Alps (Mont Blanc region visible from high altitude), then traverses the Atlantic Ocean for 7+ hours with no major landmarks. Approaching North America, the Rocky Mountains become visible on the horizon 1-2 hours before LAX descent. The Sierra Nevada and Central Valley of California appear 45-60 minutes before landing.