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FCO destination photo
MAD destination photo

FCOMAD

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side typically offers superior views of the Italian coastline, the northern tip of Sardinia, and a more dramatic crossing of the Spanish coastline near the Ebro Delta or Valencia.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Tyrrhenian Coast

Aerial views of the Roman coastline and the blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea immediately after takeoff.

🏝️

Northern Sardinia

The rugged Emerald Coast and the Strait of Bonifacio separating Corsica from Sardinia are often visible.

🛥️

Balearic Sea

Expansive views of the Mediterranean with occasional sightings of the Balearic Islands in the distance.

🏖️

Spanish Levante

The approach to the Iberian Peninsula often reveals the white sandy beaches and coastal lagoons of the Valencia region.

⛰️

Serranía de Cuenca

Dramatic limestone formations and deep river canyons as the flight moves inland across central Spain.

Sit on the left for morning flights to enjoy front-lit views of the Mediterranean islands. Keep your camera ready about 25-30 minutes after takeoff for the best views of the Sardinian coastline. During the descent into Madrid, the left side often provides a better perspective of the rolling hills of the Spanish Meseta.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏔️

Corsican Peaks

Clear views of the snow-capped Monte Cinto and the jagged granite mountains of central Corsica.

🌾

Ebro Delta

The distinct bird-foot shape of the Ebro River delta is visible if the flight path tracks slightly northward.

🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

Views of the sprawling urban landscape and the Cuatro Torres Business Area skyscrapers on the final approach.

🌅

Iberian Sunset

On evening flights, this side experiences spectacular sunsets over the horizon as the plane heads west.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Spanish horizon. If the weather is clear over France and Northern Spain, you might catch a glimpse of the Pyrenees far to the north. In winter, look for the stark contrast between the white Corsican mountains and the deep blue sea.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 1,330 km (826 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 46 min

Departure: FCO (41.8002778, 12.2388889)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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