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BFS destination photo
FAO destination photo

BFSFAO

Which side of the plane to sit from Belfast International Airport (Belfast) to Faro Airport (Faro)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular coastal perspective of the Atlantic seaboard, from the Isles of Scilly down to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve and the Tagus estuary.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Atlantic Horizon

Expansive ocean views and the potential to spot large ships crossing the Bay of Biscay.

🏝️

Isles of Scilly

The beautiful archipelago appearing like green gems off the southwestern tip of Cornwall.

🐚

Galician Inlets

The deep green valleys and 'Rias' of Northern Spain as you re-enter continental airspace.

🌉

Lisbon Coastline

Views of the Cascais coast and the mouth of the Tagus River leading into the Portuguese capital.

🧗

Cabo de São Vicente

The southwesternmost point of Europe with its iconic lighthouse and towering cliffs.

🌅

Atlantic Sunsets

Perfect positioning for evening flights to watch the sun disappear into the ocean horizon.

The right side is the premier choice for geography enthusiasts. You get a front-row seat to the Portuguese 'Silver Coast' and the dramatic turn around the Sagres peninsula. It is particularly ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the golden hour over the Atlantic Ocean.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏗️

Belfast City

Glimpses of the Samson and Goliath cranes and the Titanic Quarter shortly after departure.

💧

Lough Neagh

The massive freshwater lake dominating the landscape to the southwest of the airport.

⛰️

Snowdonia

Distant views of the Welsh mountains across the St George's Channel on clear days.

⛱️

Cornwall Coast

Aerial view of the English Riviera and the jagged cliffs of the southwest peninsula.

🏞️

Alentejo Plains

The rolling golden hills and cork oak forests of central Portugal as you head south.

🦩

Ria Formosa

The intricate network of barrier islands and lagoons surrounding Faro Airport during descent.

Choose this side for morning flights to enjoy the light hitting the UK coast without direct sun glare. On landing, if the aircraft is approaching from the west (Runway 10), you will have the best view of the Faro city center and the harbor.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 1,966 km (1,222 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min

Departure: BFS (54.6575012207, -6.21582984924)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

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