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FAO destination photo
SOU destination photo

FAOSOU

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of the Portuguese interior, the rugged French coastline of Brittany, and a spectacular view of the English South Coast and Southampton's bustling port during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🚜

Alentejo Plains

The golden, rolling landscapes of southern Portugal dotted with cork oaks and olive groves.

⚓

Brittany Peninsula

Excellent views of the rugged French coast near Brest and the many islands off the coast of Brittany.

🚢

Channel Shipping Lanes

Spot massive cargo ships and tankers navigating the world's busiest shipping channel from above.

🎡

Isle of Wight

A full aerial view of the island, including Cowes and the eastern beaches, depending on the arrival pattern.

🏗️

Southampton Docks

Unbeatable views of the giant container terminals and world-famous cruise liners berthed at the port.

🗼

Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower

Look east during the final approach to see the landmark tower and the historic naval base.

The right side is the 'landmark side' for this route. On the final approach into SOU, the plane often performs a U-turn or banks near the Isle of Wight, offering a panoramic view of the Solent. For morning flights, be aware the sun will be on this side, so window shades may be needed until reaching the Bay of Biscay.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean as you track north along the Iberian shelf.

🏖️

The Silver Coast

Distant glimpses of the Portuguese western shoreline including the surf mecca of Peniche.

⛰️

The Needles

The iconic chalk stacks at the western tip of the Isle of Wight are often visible during the approach to SOU.

⛵

Western Solent

Watch for hundreds of white sails dotting the water in the famous sailing channel between the mainland and the island.

Choose the left side for evening flights to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic. As the plane descends into the UK, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct white cliffs of the Isle of Wight's western edge. This side is generally quieter with less glare from the sun during afternoon northbound flights.

Top Activities in Southampton
Route Information

Distance: 1,636 km (1,017 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min

Departure: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Arrival: SOU (50.95029830932617, -1.3567999601364136)

Route Type: International

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