Takeoff views of the Alps are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than landing views of São Paulo's urban sprawl. The Alpine scenery is sharper and more visually rewarding, while the approach to Guarulhos, though interesting, is dominated by urban development and atmospheric haze.
Flown MXP to GRU? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Milano to Sao Paulo is 5,894 miles (9,485 km), a flight of about 12 hours.
The route crosses the Mediterranean Sea south of Sardinia and Corsica, then continues over North Africa (southern Spain/Morocco region visible early), across the Atlantic with no major landmarks for 6+ hours, then approaches South America with the Brazilian coast appearing near the equator. The South Atlantic crossing dominates the flight's middle section with only open ocean visible.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MXP
LEFTMalpensa typically departs runway 35L or 35R (northwesterly). Left seats face the Alps during initial climb, with the snow-capped peaks of Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso visible within 15 minutes. Right seats see the flat Lombardy plain.
Landing at GRU
RIGHTGuarulhos approaches from the northeast (runways 27L/27R or 09L/09R depending on winds). Right seats offer views of the Atlantic coastal escarpment (Serra do Mar) and the sprawling São Paulo metropolitan area during descent. Left seats see inland plateau.
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 Malpensa (MXP) to Guarulhos (GRU)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Milano to Sao Paulo. Takeoff views of the Alps are more dramatic and geographically distinctive than landing views of São Paulo's urban sprawl. The Alpine scenery is sharper and more visually rewarding, while the approach to Guarulhos, though interesting, is dominated by urban development and atmospheric haze.
What can I see during takeoff from Malpensa in Milano?
During takeoff from Malpensa (MXP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Malpensa typically departs runway 35L or 35R (northwesterly). Left seats face the Alps during initial climb, with the snow-capped peaks of Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso visible within 15 minutes. Right seats see the flat Lombardy plain. Notable sights include: Alps (Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso massif), Lake Maggiore to the northwest, Ticino River valley, Varese plain.
What can I see when landing at Guarulhos in Sao Paulo?
When landing at Guarulhos (GRU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Guarulhos approaches from the northeast (runways 27L/27R or 09L/09R depending on winds). Right seats offer views of the Atlantic coastal escarpment (Serra do Mar) and the sprawling São Paulo metropolitan area during descent. Left seats see inland plateau. Notable sights include: Serra do Mar escarpment, Atlantic Ocean horizon, São Paulo urban sprawl, Cantareira Mountains to the north.
How long is the flight from Milano to Sao Paulo?
The flight from Malpensa (MXP) to Guarulhos (GRU) takes about 12 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 5,894 miles (9,485 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Milano to Sao Paulo flight path pass over?
The route crosses the Mediterranean Sea south of Sardinia and Corsica, then continues over North Africa (southern Spain/Morocco region visible early), across the Atlantic with no major landmarks for 6+ hours, then approaches South America with the Brazilian coast appearing near the equator. The South Atlantic crossing dominates the flight's middle section with only open ocean visible.