About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Luqa (MLA) to Gatwick (LGW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Malta to London. The right side wins overall because the Malta departure views are genuinely spectacular — the entire Maltese archipelago laid out in turquoise Mediterranean water is one of the best island departure views in Europe. The landing views at Gatwick are more modest on either side, so the takeoff experience tips the balance to the right.
What can I see during takeoff from Luqa in Malta?
During takeoff from Luqa (MLA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Malta's runways 13/31 and 05/23 mean most northbound departures involve a left turn out over the sea, but the right side captures the full Maltese archipelago — Gozo and Comino are clearly visible to the northwest as the aircraft climbs and banks. The Grand Harbour of Valletta and the Three Cities are also on the right during initial climb. Notable sights include: Grand Harbour and Valletta fortifications, Gozo island to the northwest, Comino and the Blue Lagoon, Marsaxlokk Bay to the southeast.
What can I see when landing at Gatwick in London?
When landing at Gatwick (LGW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Gatwick's runway 08L/26R means most arrivals from the south approach from the southeast heading northwest. The left side gives views over the North Downs, the Surrey Hills, and Crawley below, while the right side faces open farmland. On the left you also get a clear view of the London skyline on the horizon during the approach. Notable sights include: Surrey Hills and North Downs escarpment, Crawley town below, London skyline on the northern horizon, Ashdown Forest to the southeast.
How long is the flight from Malta to London?
The flight from Luqa (MLA) to Gatwick (LGW) takes Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes.
What does the Malta to London flight path pass over?
After leaving Malta the route crosses the central Mediterranean, passing west of Sicily and Sardinia. Over the Italian coast near Genoa or the French Riviera coastline may be visible depending on routing. The flight then crosses southern France, the Rhône valley, and the Loire basin before crossing the English Channel near Dieppe or Boulogne, with the white cliffs of the Sussex coast visible on descent into Gatwick.