Right-side seats dominate this route. The takeoff climb offers unobstructed views of the Alps, which are the most visually striking feature. While the landing favors the left, the Alps during departure are more dramatic and memorable than the Danube approach.
Flown MXP to VIE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Milano to Vienna is 408 miles (656 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Alpine chain from southwest to northeast, passing over or near the Ötztal and Zillertal valleys in the Austrian Tyrol, then descends into the Danube Valley. The Ötztal and surrounding peaks of the central Alps are visible from both sides during cruise altitude, but right-side seats capture them more directly. The Salzkammergut lake district (including Hallstatt region) may be visible on the left during the final descent phase.
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from MXP
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Alps immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast from Malpensa, and right-side windows frame the snow-capped peaks of the western Alps rising dramatically from the Lombardy plain.
Landing at VIE
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best views during descent into Vienna. The approach from the southwest brings the Danube River into view on the left, along with the Vienna Basin and the city's urban sprawl. The Carpathian foothills are also visible to the left.
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 Schwechat (VIE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Milano to Vienna. Right-side seats dominate this route. The takeoff climb offers unobstructed views of the Alps, which are the most visually striking feature. While the landing favors the left, the Alps during departure are more dramatic and memorable than the Danube approach.
What can I see during takeoff from Malpensa in Milano?
During takeoff from Malpensa (MXP), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Alps immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeast from Malpensa, and right-side windows frame the snow-capped peaks of the western Alps rising dramatically from the Lombardy plain. Notable sights include: Western Alps (Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso massif), Lake Como (Lago di Como) to the northeast, Lombardy plain stretching south toward Milan, foothills of the Prealps.
What can I see when landing at Schwechat in Vienna?
When landing at Schwechat (VIE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best views during descent into Vienna. The approach from the southwest brings the Danube River into view on the left, along with the Vienna Basin and the city's urban sprawl. The Carpathian foothills are also visible to the left. Notable sights include: Danube River (Donau) and its floodplain, Vienna city center and suburban districts, Vienna Basin, Eastern Alps foothills (Carpathian fringe).
How long is the flight from Milano to Vienna?
The flight from Malpensa (MXP) to Schwechat (VIE) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 408 miles (656 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Milano to Vienna flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Alpine chain from southwest to northeast, passing over or near the Ötztal and Zillertal valleys in the Austrian Tyrol, then descends into the Danube Valley. The Ötztal and surrounding peaks of the central Alps are visible from both sides during cruise altitude, but right-side seats capture them more directly. The Salzkammergut lake district (including Hallstatt region) may be visible on the left during the final descent phase.