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EDI destination photo
MAD destination photo

EDIMAD

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the Welsh mountains, the dramatic crossing of the Bay of Biscay, and a stunning approach over the Picos de Europa and the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains before landing in Madrid.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Snowdonia National Park

Aerial views of Wales' highest peaks, including Snowdon, depending on the specific airway used.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

A long stretch of deep blue Atlantic water, often showing dramatic wave patterns and coastal cliffs of Brittany.

⛰️

Picos de Europa

Jagged limestone peaks in Northern Spain that remain snow-capped for much of the year.

🌲

Sierra de Guadarrama

The rugged mountain range north of Madrid, offering a dramatic gateway into the capital city.

🏢

Madrid Skyline

On the final approach, see the Cuatro Torres Business Area and the dense urban sprawl of Madrid.

The right side is superior for mountain lovers, especially when crossing into Spain. To avoid glare during the midday sun, the right side is preferable as the plane heads south. Watch for the Picos de Europa approximately 30-40 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏰

Edinburgh & Firth of Forth

Immediate views of the historic Scottish capital and the iconic bridges over the estuary upon departure.

⛰️

The Pennines

The 'backbone of England' provides a rugged landscape of rolling hills and moors as you fly south.

🚢

English Channel

Look for a busy maritime corridor filled with cargo ships and tankers between the UK and France.

🍷

Western France

Glimpses of the French coastline and the river estuaries of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

🏙️

Castilian Plateau

The vast, golden-hued high plains of central Spain provide a stark and beautiful contrast to the north.

Sit on the left for better views of Edinburgh at takeoff and the sunrise if flying early in the morning. On the descent into Madrid, the left side often provides a broader view of the arid Spanish interior and the Jarama river valley.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,721 km (1,069 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 18 min

Departure: EDI (55.95000076293945, -3.372499942779541)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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