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FAO destination photo
RTM destination photo

FAORTM

Which side of the plane to sit from Faro Airport (Faro) to Rotterdam The Hague Airport (Rotterdam)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an exceptional perspective of the Ria Formosa lagoons immediately after takeoff and typically offers the most iconic views of the Rotterdam skyline and the Port of Rotterdam during the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Ria Formosa

Stunning views of the barrier islands and salt marshes of Faro's natural park right after departure.

⛰️

Spanish Meseta

The high-altitude plains and rugged mountains of the Spanish interior.

🗼

Greater Paris

On clear days, the urban sprawl of Paris and the Eiffel Tower may be visible in the distance.

🏙️

Rotterdam City

A prime view of the Erasmus Bridge and the city's unique modern skyscrapers during landing.

🚢

Port of Rotterdam

The vast industrial landscape of Europe's largest seaport, including container terminals and ships.

The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun will be behind you or to the south. The most dramatic moment is the descent into RTM; depending on the wind, the plane often circles the city, giving right-side passengers a clear look at the Markthal and Euromast. Ensure you are not directly over the wing to capture the detail of the Ria Formosa at takeoff.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏖️

Western Algarve

Aerial views of the rugged cliffs and golden beaches extending toward Sagres.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

Deep blue Atlantic waters as the flight crosses from Spain into French airspace.

🍷

Bordeaux Vineyards

The geometric patterns of famous wine estates in the Aquitaine region.

🏰

Loire Valley

Occasional sightings of historic chateaux and the winding Loire river system.

🏗️

Zeeland Delta Works

Impressive views of the Oosterscheldekering and Dutch water management engineering.

Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic. During the descent, keep an eye out for the intricate island structures of Zeeland and the coastal defenses. Seats behind the wing are preferable to maintain an unobstructed view of the ground as the aircraft turns toward the Netherlands.

Top Activities in Rotterdam
Route Information

Distance: 1,925 km (1,196 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 34 min

Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Arrival: RTM (51.956902, 4.43722)

Route Type: International

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