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CUN → AMS
Which side of the plane to sit from Cancún International Airport (Cancun) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most diverse scenery, including the turquoise waters of the Caribbean at departure, potential views of the US East Coast and Greenland on northern tracks, and the green landscapes of the British Isles before landing.
Cancun Hotel Zone
Dramatic views of the narrow sandbar and turquoise Nichupté Lagoon immediately after takeoff from CUN.
US Eastern Seaboard
If the flight path hugs the coast, you may see the lights of cities like New York or Boston during the early night.
Greenland Icecap
On a standard Great Circle route, look out for the rugged, snow-capped mountains and glaciers of Southern Greenland.
The British Isles
Views of the lush green terrain of Ireland or Northern England as the aircraft begins its transit across the North Sea.
Dutch Coastline
Approaching Amsterdam, the left side often sees the industrial port of IJmuiden and the North Sea Canal.
Choose the left side for better lighting; since you are flying northeast, this side faces away from the direct sun for most of the flight, reducing glare. If it's a night flight, keep your window shade open as you cross the North Atlantic for a chance to spot the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) during winter months.
Gulf of Mexico
Expansive views of the deep blue waters and coral reefs near the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Atlantic Sunrise
A front-row seat to a spectacular sunrise over the horizon as the flight nears the European continent.
North Sea Wind Farms
Large offshore wind installations like Gemini or Egmond aan Zee are often visible during the descent.
The Polders
Intricate patterns of reclaimed land, canals, and agricultural fields characteristic of the Dutch landscape.
The right side is perfect for early risers who want to witness the sunrise over the North Atlantic. However, be aware that the sun will be quite intense during the final hours of the flight, so you may need to lower your shade to avoid overheating. On final approach to Schiphol, look for the busy shipping lanes entering the English Channel.
Distance: 8,281 km (5,146 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 45 min
Departure: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)
Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Route Type: International
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