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FAO destination photo
EDI destination photo

FAO → EDI

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more consistently dramatic landscape, featuring the rugged Atlantic coastline of Portugal, the majestic peaks of Snowdonia in Wales, and the stunning scenery of the Lake District as you approach Scotland.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Ria Formosa Lagoons

Immediately after takeoff from Faro, view the intricate network of barrier islands and turquoise lagoons of the Algarve coast.

⛰️

Serra da Estrela

Cross over mainland Portugal's highest mountain range, often snow-capped in winter months.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

Deep blue views of the Atlantic as the flight crosses from the Spanish coast toward the British Isles.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

Eryri (Snowdonia)

As you enter UK airspace, look for the sharp ridges and glacial lakes of North Wales.

🚤

Lake District

Breathtaking views of Windermere and the surrounding fells of Cumbria, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

🇮🇲

Isle of Man

On clear days, the entire island is visible sitting in the center of the Irish Sea.

For the best lighting, choose the left side on late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Atlantic. During winter, look for the stark contrast of snow on the Welsh and Cumbrian mountains. Sit forward of the wing to ensure your view of the Lake District isn't obstructed.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🛶

Guadiana River

The natural border between Portugal and Spain is visible shortly after departure to the east.

🍷

Douro Valley

Glimpse the terraced vineyards of Portugal's famous wine region as you head north.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

The dramatic limestone spires of Northern Spain are often visible on the horizon.

🌉

Forth Bridges

During the descent into Edinburgh, this side often provides the best angle of the iconic UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge.

🏰

Edinburgh Cityscape

As the plane turns for its final approach, catch views of Edinburgh Castle and the historic Old Town.

The right side is superior for the final approach into EDI. If the plane lands towards the west (Runway 24), you will get an incredible view of the Forth Bridges and the city skyline. This side is also better on morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun.

Top Activities in Edinburgh
Route Information

Distance: 2,134 km (1,326 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 51 min

Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Arrival: EDI (55.95000076293945, -3.372499942779541)

Route Type: International

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