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FNC → BRS
Which side of the plane to sit from Madeira Airport (Funchal) to Bristol Airport (Bristol)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views during the iconic departure from Funchal and a scenic approach into Bristol via the Severn Estuary.
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Madeira Interior
Stunning views of the volcanic peaks including Pico Ruivo as the plane climbs away from FNC.
Ponta de São Lourenço
The arid, reddish rock formations of Madeira's easternmost peninsula during takeoff.
Brittany Coastline
Distant views of the French Finistère region when crossing the Bay of Biscay.
Exmoor National Park
The high coastal plateaus and deep valleys of the North Devon coastline.
Severn Bridges
The two massive suspension bridges connecting England and Wales just before landing.
Portishead Docks
Industrial maritime views and the Royal Portbury Dock on the final descent into BRS.
The right side is essential for the 'Funchal experience,' as aircraft usually turn right after takeoff, providing a full panorama of the island. On arrival at Bristol, this side typically sees the Somerset Levels and the city of Bristol itself if the wind is blowing from the west (Runway 27 approach).
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Deep Atlantic
Vast expanses of the North Atlantic Ocean shortly after leaving the Macaronesian archipelago.
Land's End
The first sight of the UK mainland, featuring the rugged southwestern tip of Cornwall.
St Ives Bay
Clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of the North Cornish coastline.
Tintagel
The dramatic cliffside ruins associated with King Arthur, visible near the shoreline.
Bristol Channel
The widening estuary separating South West England from the coast of South Wales.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is superior for spotting the Cornish coastline and the surfers' beaches of Newquay as you enter British airspace. If the flight path is slightly more westerly, you may even catch a glimpse of the Isles of Scilly.
Get eSIMs for Portugal
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 2,371 km (1,473 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 10 min
Departure: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Arrival: BRS (51.382702, -2.71909)
Route Type: International
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