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GLA → FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Glasgow International Airport (Glasgow) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistent variety of coastal landmarks, including the Cornish peninsula and the Portuguese coast, ending with the most dramatic views of Funchal's iconic stilt-supported runway during the standard approach.
Glasgow & The Clyde
Aerial views of the city center and the industrial heritage of the River Clyde immediately after takeoff.
Land's End
The rugged westernmost tip of Cornwall and the Longships Lighthouse as the plane enters the Bay of Biscay.
Portuguese Coast
Distant views of Porto and the Lisbon coastline as the flight path parallels the Iberian Peninsula.
Porto Santo
Madeira's sister island with its famous 9km golden beach, visible shortly before the final descent.
FNC Runway Pillars
On the standard Runway 05 arrival, the left side sees the massive concrete columns supporting the runway extension.
Choose the left side for the best land-to-sea ratio. During the famous 'curving' approach into Funchal (Runway 05), the left side provides an incredible view of the cliffs and the airport's unique architecture. On morning flights, this side will be away from the direct sun for most of the southbound journey.
Isle of Arran
The dramatic jagged peaks of Goatfell and the Firth of Clyde during the initial climb out of Glasgow.
Irish East Coast
Distant views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains as the flight crosses the Irish Sea.
Isles of Scilly
The beautiful archipelago off the coast of Cornwall, appearing as small emerald dots in the blue Atlantic.
Atlantic Horizon
Uninterrupted ocean views, perfect for watching the sunset on late afternoon or evening departures.
Desertas Islands
A chain of three long, narrow, uninhabited islands visible during the final banking turn into Madeira.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy the vastness of the Atlantic and want to catch the sunset on winter flights. While it offers fewer landmasses, the views of the Scottish islands after takeoff are exceptional. Note that afternoon flights may experience significant glare as the sun moves west over the ocean.
Distance: 2,748 km (1,708 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 40 min
Departure: GLA (55.8718986511, -4.43306016922)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: International
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