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DUS → FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route as it offers the most dramatic views of the Atlantic coastline and provides the iconic perspective of Madeira's rugged cliffs and the airport's unique engineering during the final approach.
Atlantic Coastline
Stunning views of the French 'Silver Coast' and the rugged shoreline of the Bay of Biscay.
Cape Finisterre
The westernmost point of mainland Spain, known as the 'End of the World' to ancient explorers.
Porto Santo
The neighboring island of Madeira featuring a massive 9km golden sand beach, visible during the initial descent.
Northern Madeira
Dramatic views of the island's steep, green volcanic cliffs rising directly from the deep blue ocean.
FNC Runway Stilts
A unique view of the airport's runway extension, which is built on 180 concrete pillars over the sea.
The right side is essential for the famous 'Circle to Land' maneuver at Madeira. If landing on Runway 05, you will see the northern coast and then have a breathtaking view of the airport's pillar-supported structure during the final sharp turn. Evening flights offer spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic on this side.
Düsseldorf & Rhine
Aerial views of the Rhine river and the urban landscape of the Ruhr region immediately after takeoff.
The Ardennes
Hilly, forested terrain passing over eastern Belgium and the border of Luxembourg.
Loire Valley
Intricate patterns of the Loire river and French countryside as the flight heads southwest.
Picos de Europa
The sharp limestone peaks of Northern Spain are often visible in the distance when crossing the Bay of Biscay.
Desertas Islands
A chain of three uninhabited, reddish-colored volcanic islands seen just before the final turn into Funchal.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. This side provides an excellent view of the Desertas Islands during the standard approach to Runway 05. It is also better for seeing the inland geographic features of France and Northern Spain.
Distance: 2,814 km (1,749 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 45 min
Departure: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: International
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