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BSL destination photo
FAO destination photo

BSLFAO

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Swiss and French Alps shortly after takeoff, a direct view of the high Pyrenees, and the stunning Ria Formosa lagoon system upon arrival in Faro.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Swiss & French Alps

Spectacular views of the Bernese Oberland and the Mont Blanc massif appearing to the southeast shortly after departure.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

A breathtaking crossing of the highest peaks of the Pyrenees, including Aneto, as the flight transitions from France to Spain.

🏜️

Spanish Meseta

The vast, golden-hued high plateau of central Spain, featuring unique geological folds and arid landscapes.

🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

Depending on the specific airway, the sprawling capital of Spain is often visible to the east during the mid-flight segment.

🏝️

Ria Formosa Natural Park

A stunning bird's-eye view of the labyrinth of canals, islands, and sandy marshes just moments before touching down in Faro.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the Alps illuminated by the sun. Keep your camera ready roughly 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the mountain peaks. On descent into Faro, the left side is usually the best for seeing the unique barrier island system of the Algarve.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
⛰️

Jura Mountains

The limestone ridges and lush green valleys of the Jura range visible immediately after departing the Basel area.

🌲

Massif Central

The rugged, volcanic landscape of south-central France, characterized by deep gorges and ancient plateaus.

🍷

Aquitaine Basin

Views of the sprawling vineyards and river systems of southwest France as the aircraft heads towards the Iberian Peninsula.

🌳

Extremadura Dehesas

The iconic Mediterranean oak savannas of western Spain, famous for Iberian ham production.

🌊

Atlantic Horizon

During the final descent, the vast blue of the Atlantic Ocean opens up as the plane turns towards the Faro runway.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon or evening flights to experience a beautiful sunset over the Atlantic. If the flight path approaches Faro from the west (Runway 10), you will get a great view of the Sagres coastline and the western Algarve cliffs.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 1,728 km (1,074 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min

Departure: BSL (47.59, 7.5291667)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

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