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BRU โ FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Brussels Airport (Brussels) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most consistent views of the European coastline including Normandy and Galicia, plus the best perspective of the Desertas Islands on arrival.
Brussels & Suburbs
Panoramic views of the Belgian capital and the surrounding Pajottenland region shortly after takeoff.
Mont Saint-Michel
The iconic medieval abbey perched on its tidal island is often visible when crossing the Normandy coast.
Brittany Peninsula
Detailed views of the rugged, jagged coastline and turquoise waters of northwestern France.
Galician Rias
The deep, fjord-like inlets of northern Spain's coastline appearing as the flight crosses into the Atlantic.
Desertas Islands
A group of three uninhabited, reddish volcanic islands passed closely during the final descent into Funchal.
Madeira North Coast
Dramatic views of the steep, emerald-green cliffs and waterfalls characteristic of the island's northern shore.
Choose the left side for the best coastal views of France and Spain. On the final approach to Funchal (usually Runway 05), the left side offers an incredible view of the Desertas Islands. For morning flights, this side has the best light for photography as the sun is behind or above the aircraft.
French Countryside
Expansive views of the patchwork fields and river valleys of the Loire region.
Bay of Biscay
A vast expanse of deep blue water where you can often spot large cargo ships and tankers.
Atlantic Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the horizon, perfect for observing the curvature of the earth and sunsets.
Ponta de Sรฃo Lourenรงo
The arid, volcanic eastern tip of Madeira with its striking red rock formations visible during the final turn.
Funchal Cityscape
A stunning view of Funchal's white houses climbing up the mountain slopes as the plane banks for landing.
The right side is superior for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Atlantic. During the iconic 'visual approach' to Runway 05, the right side gets a unique view of the airport's famous stilted runway pillars and the city of Funchal during the final sharp bank. Keep your camera ready during the last 5 minutes of flight.
Distance: 2,664 km (1,655 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 33 min
Departure: BRU (50.9014015198, 4.48443984985)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: International
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