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FRA → FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior primarily for the approach into Madeira, offering a front-row seat to the island's rugged coastline and the dramatic final turn toward the famous elevated runway.
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Moselle Valley
Lush vineyard-covered hills and the winding Moselle river shortly after leaving German airspace.
Bay of Biscay
A vast expanse of deep blue as the flight crosses from the French coast toward Northern Spain.
Picos de Europa
The jagged limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains visible as the flight enters Spanish airspace.
Galician Rias
The dramatic, fjord-like inlets of the Northwest Spanish coast before heading out over the Atlantic.
Ponta de São Lourenço
Madeira's easternmost peninsula, featuring striking volcanic rock formations and steep cliffs.
Funchal Amphitheater
During the iconic approach to Runway 05, the plane banks right, offering a panoramic view of the capital city.
The right side is essential for the 'visual approach' into Madeira. For the best lighting, book a midday flight when the sun is high, illuminating the island's green peaks against the blue ocean. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to capture the dramatic descent past the cliffs.
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Frankfurt Skyline
Excellent views of the Main river and the city's financial district immediately after takeoff from FRA.
Loire Valley
Aerial perspective of the historic chateaus and winding river system in central France.
Spanish Meseta
The high, arid plateau of central Spain, characterized by golden plains and deep gorges.
Ilhas Desertas
As the plane descends, these three long, narrow, uninhabited islands appear to the south of Madeira.
Opt for the left side on early morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is also better if the aircraft uses Runway 23 for landing, which provides views of the open Atlantic and the Desertas Islands.
Get eSIMs for Germany
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 2,836 km (1,762 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 47 min
Departure: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: International
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