Loading map...
ALC → SNN
Which side of the plane to sit from Alicante International Airport (Alicante) to Shannon Airport (Shannon)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Picos de Europa mountain range in northern Spain and the rugged, indented coastline of Southwest Ireland during the final approach.
Santa Barbara Castle
Immediate views of the historic fortress overlooking Alicante Bay shortly after takeoff.
Picos de Europa
Jagged limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains visible as you exit mainland Spain.
Costa Verde
The lush, emerald-green northern coast of Spain meeting the deep blue of the Atlantic.
Kerry Coastline
The dramatic peninsulas of Southwest Ireland, including views of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Skellig Islands
On clear days, the iconic UNESCO rocky outcrops are visible rising from the Atlantic swell.
Choose the left side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side is particularly rewarding for spotting the transition from the dry Spanish Meseta to the mountainous northern coast. Watch for the sudden change to deep green as you cross the Irish coast roughly 20 minutes before landing.
Benidorm Skyline
The distinctive 'Manhattan of Spain' skyscrapers are visible during the initial climb out of ALC.
The Pyrenees
Distant, snow-capped peaks of the mountain range separating Spain and France on the horizon.
Biscay Coast
Panoramic views of the French coastline, including the sandy beaches of Les Landes.
Brittany Peninsula
The rocky western tip of France visible as the flight crosses the Celtic Sea.
Shannon Estuary
Aerial views of the wide river mouth and the patchworked green fields of County Clare on descent.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the ocean. Keep an eye out for the French coast mid-flight; depending on the air traffic route, you may see the islands of Re or Oleron. The approach over the Shannon Estuary offers a classic view of the Irish countryside.
Distance: 1,728 km (1,074 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min
Departure: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)
Arrival: SNN (52.702, -8.92482)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.