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BOS → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from General Edward Lawrence Logan International Airport (Boston) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer vast ocean views, the right side typically provides superior perspectives of the Iberian coastline upon arrival and better views of the Madrid metropolitan area and the Sierra de Guadarrama during descent.
Cape Cod & Islands
Clear views of the distinctive hook of Cape Cod and the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.
Transatlantic Sunrise
Experience a compressed, high-altitude sunrise as you fly east toward the morning sun over the Atlantic.
Galician Rías
Landfall often occurs over the dramatic estuaries and fjords of Northwest Spain, known as the Rías Baixas.
Sierra de Guadarrama
The snow-capped peaks of the Central System mountains provide a stunning backdrop during the descent into the Madrid plateau.
Madrid Skyline
A frequent approach path takes the plane south of the city, offering views of the Cuatro Torres skyscrapers and the Royal Palace.
The right side is ideal for catching the sunrise as you approach Europe, though you should keep your window shade down during the night to avoid waking other passengers. For the arrival into Madrid-Barajas, this side is generally better for seeing the city center and the sprawling urban landscape. If the flight arrives in the early morning, the light hitting the Spanish 'Meseta' (plateau) creates beautiful golden textures.
Massachusetts North Shore
Aerial views of Cape Ann and the rugged coastline of northern Massachusetts shortly after departure.
Nova Scotia & Newfoundland
Depending on the jet stream, you may track over the dramatic, rocky peninsulas of the Canadian Maritimes.
Northern Lights Potential
On overnight winter flights, this north-facing side offers the best chance to spot the Aurora Borealis over the North Atlantic.
Picos de Europa
As you cross into Spain, look for the jagged limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains to the south of the Bay of Biscay.
Bay of Biscay Entrance
The first sight of European soil often begins with the deep blue waters transitioning to the lush green of the Basque Country.
Choose the left side if you are flying during the winter months and hope to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis during the middle of the night. This side also offers a more direct view of the Canadian coastline if the flight path takes a more northerly Great Circle route. Be aware that the sun will rise on the opposite side, making this the 'cooler' side for sleep.
Distance: 5,474 km (3,401 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 26 min
Departure: BOS (42.36429977, -71.00520325)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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