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BHX → FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Atlantic coastline of Spain and Portugal, including the rugged Galician cliffs and the westernmost points of Europe, followed by a dramatic approach into Funchal.
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Bay of Biscay
The deep blue expanse where the North Atlantic meets the European shelf.
Galician Cliffs
The jagged, rocky coastline of northwestern Spain featuring deep coastal inlets.
Cabo da Roca
The dramatic westernmost point of continental Europe jutting into the Atlantic.
Lisbon Coastline
Views of the Estoril coast and the mouth of the Tagus River from the sea side.
Porto Santo
The neighboring island's long golden beaches visible during the final descent.
FNC Stilted Runway
A close-up view of the airport's iconic support pillars during the final banking turn.
The definitive choice for the Funchal approach. Sit here to witness the 'Runway 05' turn, where the plane banks steeply towards the airport's engineering marvel. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting on the cliffs. Be aware that most of the mid-flight view is open ocean, so the coastal points of interest are the key moments to watch for.
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The Cotswolds
Rolling hills and limestone villages visible shortly after departing Birmingham.
English Channel
Views of the busy maritime passage and the southern coastline of Devon.
Nantes
Aerial view of the city and the Loire River winding through western France.
Bordeaux Vineyards
The geometric patterns of world-famous vineyards in the Aquitaine region.
Madeira Interior
Dramatic volcanic peaks and lush green valleys as you descend towards Funchal.
Best for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. Keep an eye out for the Isle of Wight and the French coastline near Brest if the day is clear. Seats over the wing should be avoided to ensure the ground views of the French and Portuguese interiors are not obstructed.
Get eSIMs for United Kingdom
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 2,506 km (1,557 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: International
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