Loading map...
FAO → BHX
Which side of the plane to sit from Faro Airport (Faro) to Birmingham International Airport (Birmingham)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, featuring the stunning Algarve coastline immediately upon takeoff, better views of the Spanish interior, and a spectacular perspective of the English south coast and the Cotswolds during the descent into Birmingham.
Search flights from FAO to BHX
Ria Formosa
Immediate views of the lagoons, sandbanks, and salt pans of the Faro coastline during climb-out.
Spanish Meseta
The arid, golden landscapes of Extremadura and the winding path of the Tagus River.
Cantabrian Mountains
Distant but impressive views of the Picos de Europa mountain range in northern Spain.
Isle of Wight
Clear views of the Solent, the Needles, and the bustling ports of Portsmouth and Southampton.
The Cotswolds
Classic English countryside views with rolling green hills and stone villages during the final approach.
The right side is generally better for avoiding direct sunlight on Northbound flights from Faro. During takeoff, if the wind is from the East, you will get an incredible banking turn over the ocean with views of the entire Algarve coast. During the descent into BHX, look out for the urban sprawl of the West Midlands and the distinct shape of the Bullring if the flight path approaches from the South.
Book Hotels in Birmingham
Atlantic Seaboard
Dramatic views of the Portuguese coastline stretching north towards Lisbon shortly after departure.
Bay of Biscay
A vast crossing of the Atlantic where you can often spot large cargo vessels and cruise ships.
Brittany Coast
The rugged western tip of France, including the rocky outcrops around Brest and the Iroise Sea.
Cornish Peninsula
The first glimpse of the UK, featuring the turquoise waters of St. Ives Bay and the surfing beaches of Newquay.
Bristol Channel
Views of the Severn Estuary and the dramatic coastline of Exmoor National Park to the south.
Sit on the left if you prefer coastal views of Portugal and the southwestern tip of England. Be aware that on afternoon flights, this side will face the direct sun, which can cause significant glare and heat through the window. For the best photography of the Cornish coast, use a polarizing filter to cut through the haze over the Celtic Sea.
Get eSIMs for Portugal
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 1,784 km (1,109 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 23 min
Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)
Arrival: BHX (52.4538993835, -1.7480299472799998)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.