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BIO destination photo
MAN destination photo

BIOMAN

Which side of the plane to sit from Bilbao Airport (Bilbao) to Manchester Airport (Manchester)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side offers a superior vantage point for the Basque coastline upon departure and the iconic landmarks of the English South Coast, including the Isle of Wight, during the crossing.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏖️

Basque Riviera

Stunning views of San Sebastian and the French-Spanish border as the plane climbs and turns north.

🏝️

Isle of Wight

The unmistakable diamond shape of the island and the Needles rock formation are often clearly visible during the Channel crossing.

🌳

The South Downs

A patchwork of rolling green hills and chalk grasslands characteristic of the Southern English countryside.

🏙️

London Skyline

On easterly routing, the distant skyscrapers of London and the sprawling suburbs are visible to the far right.

⛰️

The Peak District

The rugged moorlands and limestone dales of the UK's first National Park appear just before landing at MAN.

Choose a window seat on the right for the best morning light across the English Channel. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the Isle of Wight. During the winter, the low sun angle provides excellent contrast for the hills of the Peak District on approach.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Cantabrian Cliffs

Dramatic views of the rugged Spanish coastline and the deep blue waters of the Bay of Biscay immediately after takeoff.

⚓

Brest Peninsula

The westernmost tip of Brittany, France, often visible as the flight path cuts across the Celtic Sea.

🏖️

Cornish Coast

Aerial views of the turquoise waters and sandy coves of Cornwall and Devon as the aircraft enters UK airspace.

⛰️

Welsh Mountains

On clear days, the distant peaks of Snowdonia National Park are visible to the west while cruising over the Midlands.

🏗️

Mersey Estuary

Views of the industrial heritage and the expansive Liverpool Bay area during the final descent into Manchester.

Sit behind the wing to capture the scale of the Cantabrian mountains during departure. This side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Watch for the distinct shape of the Welsh coastline roughly 20 minutes before landing.

Top Activities in Manchester
Route Information

Distance: 1,119 km (695 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min

Departure: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)

Arrival: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)

Route Type: International

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