About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Luqa (MLA) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Malta to London. While the right side wins at takeoff for Valletta's Grand Harbour, the left side dominates the majority of the flight — tracking northwest over the Italian peninsula gives left-side views of the Apennines and Po Valley, then the Alps, then France, and finally the Thames and London on approach. The left side delivers more sustained geographic interest across the full 3-hour journey.
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 main runway 31 departure heads northwest, putting the right side facing northeast over the Maltese coastline and Valletta's Grand Harbour. You get a clear view of the historic fortified city and the deep-water inlet before climbing out over the Mediterranean. Notable sights include: Grand Harbour and Valletta fortifications, Cottonera Lines (Three Cities), St. Paul's Bay to the north, Gozo island in the distance.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow's most common landing approach is from the east on runway 27L/27R, meaning the aircraft tracks westward over London. The left side faces south, giving views over central London landmarks, the Thames, and the Surrey suburbs during the long final approach. Notable sights include: River Thames and its distinctive bends through central London, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park, Wembley Stadium arch, the City of London skyline with the Shard and Canary Wharf towers.
How long is the flight from Malta to London?
The flight from Luqa (MLA) to Heathrow (LHR) takes Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes.
What does the Malta to London flight path pass over?
The route tracks northwest from Malta over the central Mediterranean, crossing Sicily (Etna visible on clear days), then the Italian boot over Calabria and Campania, up through the Apennine spine toward the Po Valley and Milan. The Alps appear roughly over northern Italy and southern Switzerland — Mont Blanc massif and the main Alpine chain are visible. The route then crosses southeastern France over the Rhône corridor and Burgundy, before crossing the English Channel near Calais and tracking over southeast England to Heathrow.