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AMS destination photo

FAOAMS

Which side of the plane to sit from Faro Airport (Faro) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of diverse landscapes, including a potential distant view of the Pyrenees, the sprawling French countryside, potential glimpses of the Paris metropolitan area, and a better angle for the Amsterdam city skyline during descent into Schiphol.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏖️

Central Algarve Coast

Excellent views of the golden limestone cliffs and hidden coves that define the southern Portuguese shoreline.

🏜️

Spanish Meseta

The vast, high-altitude plateau of central Spain, characterized by red earth and patchwork agricultural fields.

⛰️

The Pyrenees Range

On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the central Pyrenees are visible to the east as the flight enters French airspace.

🗼

Paris Vistas

Often passing to the west of Paris, passengers can spot the Eiffel Tower and the skyscrapers of La Défense on the eastern horizon.

🏙️

Amsterdam City Center

During standard approaches to runways like 18R or 06, this side provides the most iconic views of the historic canal rings and the port.

The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the French and Dutch landscapes. Watch closely as you cross the Loire Valley for glimpses of historic châteaux. During the final 10 minutes, keep your camera ready for the unique 'polder' landscape of the Netherlands, which is highly distinct from the air.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🏝️

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Breathtaking views of the intricate lagoons, sandbars, and barrier islands of the Algarve immediately after takeoff from Faro.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Visible as the flight crosses Northern Spain, these jagged limestone peaks offer some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Iberia.

🌊

Bay of Biscay Coastline

Panoramic views of the rugged French Atlantic coast, including the islands of Oléron and Ré near La Rochelle.

🏰

Loire River Estuary

The winding mouth of France's longest river as it meets the Atlantic near Saint-Nazaire.

⚓

Zeeland Delta

The complex system of dams, bridges, and islands of the Dutch Delta Works visible during the initial descent.

Choose a seat in front of the wing to capture the Ria Formosa without engine obstruction. For evening flights, the left side will experience the sunset over the Atlantic, which is spectacular but can be very bright; bring sunglasses. If Schiphol is landing to the north (Polderbaan), the left side provides the best view of the coastline and wind farms.

Top Activities in Amsterdam
Route Information

Distance: 1,970 km (1,224 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 38 min

Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Arrival: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)

Route Type: International

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