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BOS → PDL
Which side of the plane to sit from General Edward Lawrence Logan International Airport (Boston) to João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is the winner for this route as it typically provides the iconic aerial view of the Sete Cidades volcanic craters and the dramatic northern coastline of São Miguel island upon arrival.
Boston Harbor Islands
Directly after takeoff from Logan, enjoy a bird's-eye view of the historic lighthouses and over 30 islands dotting the harbor.
Nova Scotia Coastline
Depending on the jet stream and route, you may see the rugged, forested fringes of the Canadian Maritimes across the Atlantic.
Sete Cidades Caldeira
The highlight of the trip: the massive volcanic crater containing the famous twin green and blue lakes during the final descent.
Northern Basalt Cliffs
As the plane banks for arrival, look down at the sheer vertical cliffs and crashing Atlantic surf of São Miguel's north shore.
Most BOS to PDL flights are overnight 'red-eyes'. Choose the left side to witness a spectacular sunrise over the North Atlantic horizon. About 30 minutes before landing, the descent begins; ensure your window shade is up early to catch the first glimpse of the Azores' emerald-green peaks. If the winds are from the east, the left side provides the best view of the crater lakes.
Cape Cod & Islands
Get a clear view of the distinctive sandy hook of Cape Cod, plus Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket to the south.
Oceanic Horizon
Experience the vastness of the Atlantic with unobstructed views of the horizon, perfect for star-gazing during the middle of the flight.
Ponta Delgada Cityscape
Watch the capital city come into focus, featuring its white-washed architecture, black basalt accents, and the busy harbor.
Marina & Port
A great view of the cruise terminal and the yacht marina as the plane touches down at João Paulo II Airport.
The right side is ideal for views of the Massachusetts coast during the initial climb out of Boston. On arrival, while you might miss the craters, you get an excellent view of the urban layout of Ponta Delgada and the southern agricultural terraces. This side is also less likely to have direct sun glare during an early morning arrival, making for better photography of the island's lush landscape.
Distance: 3,844 km (2,389 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 31 min
Departure: BOS (42.36429977, -71.00520325)
Arrival: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Route Type: International
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