Loading map...

FNC destination photo
PDL destination photo

FNCPDL

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular view of Madeira's rugged northern coastline during departure and typically provides the best angle for the iconic Sete Cidades crater lakes when approaching Ponta Delgada.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
⛰️

Madeira Central Massif

Dramatic views of Pico Ruivo and the jagged volcanic peaks of Madeira's interior immediately following departure.

🏖️

Porto Santo

On clear days, the golden sands of the neighboring island are visible to the northeast during the initial climb.

🗺️

Santa Maria Island

The oldest island in the Azores archipelago, often appearing as a silhouette to the north as you enter Azorean airspace.

🌄

Sete Cidades Massif

Unparalleled views of the massive volcanic caldera and its twin green and blue lakes during the approach to Ponta Delgada.

🌊

Ponta da Ferraria

Deep black basaltic cliffs and natural thermal ocean pools visible on the western tip of São Miguel before touchdown.

The right side is premier for photographers. On departure from FNC Runway 05, the plane often performs a 180-degree turn, offering panoramic views of the Funchal amphitheater. During the arrival at PDL, the descent often tracks north of the island, placing the majestic Sete Cidades lakes directly in your line of sight.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏝️

Desertas Islands

A chain of three uninhabited volcanic islands visible to the southeast shortly after takeoff from Funchal.

🌊

Atlantic Abyssal Plain

Vast, deep-blue ocean views across the Mid-Atlantic Ridge area during the cruise phase of the flight.

🌋

Ilhéu de Vila Franca

A stunning, perfectly circular volcanic crater islet located off the southern coast of São Miguel during the final descent.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. If the aircraft approaches João Paulo II Airport from the east for Runway 30, you will get a great view of the southern coastline and the famous 'Princess Ring' islet near Vila Franca do Campo.

Top Activities in Ponta Delgada
Route Information

Distance: 985 km (612 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min

Departure: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)

Arrival: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.