The right side scores higher due to the Sydney landing sequence: the Blue Mountains, Sydney Harbour's iconic geography, and the Pacific coastline provide substantial scenic variety and recognizable landmarks. The Milan takeoff on the left is modest—Alpine foothills are visible but not dramatic. The 20+ hours of cruise over the Middle East, Indian Ocean, and Timor Sea are ocean-dominated on both sides (capped at 2.0 maximum), so the landing experience dominates the overall score.
Flown LIN to SYD? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Milan to Sydney is 10,285 miles (16,553 km), a flight of about 20 hours 15 minutes.
Departure: Po River valley, Alps. Cruise: Middle East (Persian Gulf, Oman coastline, Arabian Sea), Indian Ocean (open water with occasional shipping lanes visible), Timor Sea. Landing approach: Blue Mountains, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›
.jpg?width=600)
.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIN
LEFTMilan's urban sprawl and the southern Alpine foothills are visible on the left during northbound departure. The right side faces open Lombardy plains with minimal relief.
Landing at SYD
RIGHTSydney's approach from the east offers dramatic coastal scenery: the Blue Mountains inland, Sydney Harbour's distinctive geography, and the Pacific coastline. The left side faces inland terrain with less visual drama.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Linate (LIN) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Milan to Sydney. The right side scores higher due to the Sydney landing sequence: the Blue Mountains, Sydney Harbour's iconic geography, and the Pacific coastline provide substantial scenic variety and recognizable landmarks. The Milan takeoff on the left is modest—Alpine foothills are visible but not dramatic. The 20+ hours of cruise over the Middle East, Indian Ocean, and Timor Sea are ocean-dominated on both sides (capped at 2.0 maximum), so the landing experience dominates the overall score.
What can I see during takeoff from Linate in Milan?
During takeoff from Linate (LIN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Milan's urban sprawl and the southern Alpine foothills are visible on the left during northbound departure. The right side faces open Lombardy plains with minimal relief. Notable sights include: Milan city center and Linate airport infrastructure, Southern Alps (Bergamasc Alps) on the horizon, Po River valley floor.
What can I see when landing at Kingsford Smith International Airport in Sydney?
When landing at Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Sydney's approach from the east offers dramatic coastal scenery: the Blue Mountains inland, Sydney Harbour's distinctive geography, and the Pacific coastline. The left side faces inland terrain with less visual drama. Notable sights include: Sydney Harbour with its headlands and bridge, Blue Mountains escarpment inland, Tasman Sea coastline, Sydney city skyline.
How long is the flight from Milan to Sydney?
The flight from Linate (LIN) to Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) takes about 20 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 10,285 miles (16,553 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Milan to Sydney flight path pass over?
Departure: Po River valley, Alps. Cruise: Middle East (Persian Gulf, Oman coastline, Arabian Sea), Indian Ocean (open water with occasional shipping lanes visible), Timor Sea. Landing approach: Blue Mountains, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales coast.