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HAM → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Hamburg Airport (Hamburg) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior visual experience, combining the North Sea coastline, the rugged French Atlantic shores, and the dramatic mountain approach over the Sierra de Guadarrama into Madrid.
Frisian Islands
Low-lying islands and tidal flats along the North Sea coast are visible shortly after leaving Hamburg.
Normandy Cliffs
The dramatic white chalk cliffs and historic coastline of northern France offer a striking geographic feature.
Bay of Biscay
Vast Atlantic vistas as the flight path transitions from the French coast toward the northern Spanish shore.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Stunning mountain peaks providing a scenic backdrop and significant elevation change during the descent.
El Escorial
The massive Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial can often be spotted nestled in the foothills near Madrid.
Opt for an evening flight to catch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. During the descent into Madrid, the right side offers the best views of the Cuenca Alta del Manzanares nature reserve and the high-altitude reservoirs north of the city.
Rhine-Ruhr Metro
A sprawling view of Germany's industrial core and major cities like Essen and Düsseldorf shortly after departure.
Loire Valley
The lush valley known for its historic châteaux and winding river in central France is visible mid-flight.
Pyrenees Range
The snow-dusted peaks forming the natural border between France and Spain create a formidable landscape.
Iberian Meseta
The high, arid plateau of central Spain, characterized by unique reddish soil and vast agricultural patterns.
Madrid Skyline
Panoramic views of the city's expanding northern business district and the Four Towers upon final approach.
Morning flights are best for watching the sunrise over Europe, though the light can be harsh. Watch for the city lights of Paris on the horizon during night flights, as the path often passes just east of the French capital.
Distance: 1,781 km (1,107 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 22 min
Departure: HAM (53.630401611328, 9.988229751586902)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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