The right side wins on both ends of the flight — a striking Alpine view during departure and a chance to see London's skyline on approach — giving it more variety and drama than the flatter, less distinctive left-side views over the Po Valley and Surrey farmland.
Flown LIN to LGW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Milan to London is 586 miles (943 km), a flight of about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Western Alpine foothills, French Massif Central plateau, and the English Channel coastline near Normandy before crossing into southern England.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIN
RIGHTDeparting Linate northbound, the climb-out gives a clear view toward the Alps rising on the right side, including the snow-capped peaks near Monte Rosa and the Swiss-Italian border ranges. The left side shows the flat Po Valley and Milan's suburbs, which is comparatively unremarkable.
Landing at LGW
RIGHTOn approach into Gatwick's runway 26, the aircraft typically tracks in from the east over the Sussex and Surrey countryside before turning onto final approach heading west. The right side offers glimpses of London's skyline and the North Downs during the turn, while the left side mostly shows rural fields and the M23 corridor.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Linate (LIN) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Milan to London. The right side wins on both ends of the flight — a striking Alpine view during departure and a chance to see London's skyline on approach — giving it more variety and drama than the flatter, less distinctive left-side views over the Po Valley and Surrey farmland.
What can I see during takeoff from Linate in Milan?
During takeoff from Linate (LIN), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Linate northbound, the climb-out gives a clear view toward the Alps rising on the right side, including the snow-capped peaks near Monte Rosa and the Swiss-Italian border ranges. The left side shows the flat Po Valley and Milan's suburbs, which is comparatively unremarkable. Notable sights include: Monte Rosa massif, Alpine foothills, Po Valley farmland, Milan's northern suburbs.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Right side for the best views. On approach into Gatwick's runway 26, the aircraft typically tracks in from the east over the Sussex and Surrey countryside before turning onto final approach heading west. The right side offers glimpses of London's skyline and the North Downs during the turn, while the left side mostly shows rural fields and the M23 corridor. Notable sights include: North Downs ridgeline, distant London skyline, Surrey countryside, Gatwick's terminal complex.
How long is the flight from Milan to London?
The flight from Linate (LIN) to Gatwick (LGW) takes about 1 hour 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 586 miles (943 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Milan to London flight path pass over?
Western Alpine foothills, French Massif Central plateau, and the English Channel coastline near Normandy before crossing into southern England.