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FNC → ORY
Which side of the plane to sit from Madeira Airport (Funchal) to Paris-Orly Airport (Paris)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior sequence of views including the eastern tip of Madeira, the golden island of Porto Santo, the Iberian coastline, and the historic châteaux of the Loire Valley during the descent into Paris.
Ponta de São Lourenço
The easternmost peninsula of Madeira, featuring striking orange and brown volcanic rock formations against the deep blue sea.
Porto Santo Island
A clear view of Madeira's neighbor, famous for its 9km long golden sand beach and barren mountain peaks.
Lisbon Coastline
Depending on the flight path, you can often see the mouth of the Tagus River and the sprawl of the Portuguese capital.
Île de Ré
The distinctive white bridge connecting the island to La Rochelle and the iconic salt pans visible from high altitude.
Loire Valley Châteaux
As the plane descends, look for the winding Loire river and several historic castles nestled in the forest.
Parisian Skyline
During the final approach to Orly, the Eiffel Tower and the Montparnasse Tower are often visible on the horizon to the north.
This is the preferred side for geographic variety. On a clear day, you can track the entire Spanish and Portuguese Atlantic coast. For evening flights, you will enjoy the sunset reflections over the Bay of Biscay. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the Loire Valley châteaux.
North Madeira Coast
Dramatic views of the rugged volcanic cliffs and lush green peaks of Madeira's northern shoreline immediately after takeoff.
Brittany Coastline
Aerial perspective of the jagged Breton peninsula, including the Glénan Islands and the rocky shores of southern Brittany.
Mont Saint-Michel
On specific westerly approach patterns, you may catch a distant glimpse of the famous tidal island abbey.
Loire Estuary
Where the longest river in France meets the Atlantic, often showing clear sediment patterns and industrial ports.
Western Paris Suburbs
View of the sprawling residential areas and the modern business district of La Défense in the distance.
Select this side for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. It is particularly good for spotting the rugged islands off the coast of France. Watch for the dramatic change from deep Atlantic blue to the emerald green of the French countryside.
Distance: 2,391 km (1,486 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 11 min
Departure: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Arrival: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)
Route Type: International
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