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GLA destination photo
FAO destination photo

GLAFAO

Which side of the plane to sit from Glasgow International Airport (Glasgow) to Faro Airport (Faro)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is generally superior as it offers better views of the UK coastlines, the dramatic Picos de Europa mountains in northern Spain, and a spectacular approach over the Ria Formosa natural park when landing in Faro.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Southern Uplands

Rolling hills and green valleys as you depart Scotland and head south over the border.

🏔️

Snowdonia Peaks

The rugged terrain of North Wales, including Mount Snowdon, is often visible on clear days.

🏖️

Brittany Coast

The jagged and beautiful coastline of western France as you cross toward the Bay of Biscay.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Dramatic limestone massifs in Northern Spain that provide the most impressive mountain views of the trip.

🍷

Douro Valley

The winding Douro river and its terraced vineyards as you traverse into Portugal.

🌾

Alentejo Plains

Golden landscapes and cork oak forests characteristic of central southern Portugal.

🏝️

Ria Formosa

The intricate network of barrier islands and blue lagoons right before touching down at Faro.

Book a seat in front of the wing for the best view of the Picos de Europa mountain range. On the final descent into Faro, keep your camera ready for the Ria Formosa lagoons which are a highlight of this route. Morning flights offer the best lighting as the sun will be behind you or to the side, preventing glare from the Atlantic.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Isle of Arran

The 'Scotland in Miniature' island is visible shortly after takeoff from Glasgow.

🌊

Celtic Sea

The vast, deep blue waters between the UK and the French coast.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

Expansive ocean views where you might spot large cargo vessels or even whales.

🌅

Atlantic Horizon

Uninterrupted views of the sunset if you are traveling on a late afternoon flight.

🏰

Cape St. Vincent

The southwesternmost point of Europe, visible in the distance as the plane turns east toward Faro.

🏖️

Algarve Coastline

Views of the famous golden cliffs and beaches of western Algarve during the approach.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights if you want to witness a sunset over the Atlantic. During takeoff from GLA, look out for the Firth of Clyde. While the ocean views are dominant, the approach phase provides a great perspective of the Sagres area and the rocky cliffs of the western Algarve.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 2,114 km (1,314 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min

Departure: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

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