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FAO destination photo
NOC destination photo

FAONOC

Which side of the plane to sit from Faro Airport (Faro) to Ireland West Knock Airport (Connaught)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers spectacular views of the Atlantic coastline of Portugal and, most significantly, the dramatic cliffs and bays of Western Ireland during the descent into Knock.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏖️

Algarve Coastline

Glimpse the turquoise waters and golden sandstone cliffs of southern Portugal shortly after takeoff from Faro.

🌊

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the vast Atlantic Ocean as you fly north parallel to the Iberian peninsula.

⛰️

Cliffs of Moher

If the approach path aligns, see the iconic 214-meter high cliffs dropping into the sea in County Clare.

🏝️

Aran Islands

The three limestone islands guarding the mouth of Galway Bay are often visible on clear days.

☘️

Connemara Coast

The rugged, fractured coastline of Western Ireland provides a stunning green and blue mosaic.

Book a window seat on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Atlantic. During the final 30 minutes, keep your eyes peeled for the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren region. Early morning flights may experience some glare, but the coastal definition is sharper.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌇

Lisbon District

Look inland to see the Tagus estuary and the sprawling urban landscape of Portugal's capital in the distance.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Across the Bay of Biscay, the jagged peaks of Northern Spain may be visible if the flight path is more easterly.

☁️

Bay of Biscay

The crossing over this deep-water bay often features dramatic cloud formations and expansive sea views.

🐄

Irish Midlands

A sea of forty shades of green, dotted with small farms and stone walls as you cross the Shannon river area.

🪨

The Burren

The stark, lunar-like limestone plateau of County Clare stands out against the surrounding greenery.

The right side is better for seeing the interior of Portugal and the rolling hills of the Irish midlands. It is generally the shadier side for north-bound flights during the middle of the day, which makes photography easier without sun glare on the window.

Top Activities in Connaught
Route Information

Distance: 1,880 km (1,168 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 30 min

Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Arrival: NOC (53.9103012084961, -8.818490028381348)

Route Type: International

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