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DUS destination photo
FNC destination photo

DUSFNC

Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

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.

Top Activities in Funchal
Route Information

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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