Crossing the Alps – A scenic hop from Innsbruck to Bolzano

There are short flights, and then there are experiences. The route from Innsbruck (LOWI) to Bolzano (LIPB) is undoubtedly the latter. While the flight time is less than 30 minutes, it packs in some of the most dramatic Alpine scenery found anywhere in Europe.

The departure: Leaving the Inn valley

Departing from Innsbruck’s Runway 26 or 08 is always a thrill. Tucked deep within the Inn Valley, the climb-out requires precision to navigate the towering peaks of the Karwendel and Tux Alps. On this flight, we’re taking the RTT(Rattenberg) transition before turning south toward the Italian border.

The route: through the Brenner Pass

Using a flight plan generated by XPFlightPlanner, we’re cruising at FL250—high enough to clear the jagged peaks but low enough to feel the scale of the mountains. Our path takes us via BIRGI and UMVEG, effectively tracking the famous Brenner Pass corridor.

As we cross into Italy, the landscape shifts from the sharp, snow-capped peaks of Austria to the unique, jagged limestone formations of the Dolomites. Passing TOBSO and BAKOR, the descent begins quickly.

The arrival: into the heart of the Dolomites

The approach into Bolzano (LIPB) is legendary among pilots. The airport sits in a narrow valley surrounded by sheer rock walls. Following the D341Y arrival, you’ll find yourself flying past the iconic Sciliar and Rosengarten massifs before lining up for a visual approach into the valley floor.

Whether you are flying this in X-Plane or a real-world GA aircraft, this route is a masterclass in mountain flying and navigation.

Flight Details

  • Aircraft: CRJ-900
  • Distance: ~75nm
  • Cruising Alt: FL250

ICAO Route

(FPL-N9CRXP-IS
-CRJ9/M-SDFGIRWY/S
-LOWI1000
-N0400F250 RTT DCT BIRGI DCT UMVEG DCT GEDSO DCT TOBSO Y107 BAKOR N503 LAMPO DCT D341Y
-LIPB0029 LIPS
-DOF/260315 REG/N9CRXP PER/C TALT/LIPS RMK/TCAS)

Download

You can download the complete flight plan, including multiple formats (X-Plane FMS, XFMC, Aerosoft CRJ, FlightFactor IXEG, JarDesign, PMDG, UFMC…) and briefing information, from the following link:

👉 https://share.xpflightplanner.com/2026/03/15/165216/LOWILIPB/

Pre-fill sim networks

XPFlightPlanner makes it easy to generate realistic routes, export them to your favorite aircraft, and share them online with other sim pilots.

Happy flying and enjoy the Alpine views! ✈️


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