Loading map...

ICN destination photo
MAD destination photo

ICNMAD

Our Recommendation
8.9

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the dramatic Caucasus range and the majestic northern slopes of the Alps and Pyrenees during the transcontinental journey.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏜️

Gobi Desert & Steppe

Expansive views of the Mongolian plateau's unique landscape and the transition into the Kazakh Steppe.

🏔️

Tianshan Mountains

Spectacular snow-capped peaks of the 'Celestial Mountains' along the border of China and Kyrgyzstan.

🏔️

The Caucasus

A major highlight featuring the jagged peaks of the Greater Caucasus, including the towering Mount Elbrus.

⛷️

The Alps

A grand crossing of the European Alps, offering views of the Swiss and French peaks depending on the specific corridor.

⛰️

Pyrenees Mountains

The dramatic natural border between France and Spain, usually visible about 45 minutes before landing at Madrid.

🌇

Castilian Plateau

The high-altitude plains of central Spain with their distinctive red earth and grid-like agricultural patterns.

The right side is superior for mountain enthusiasts. The Caucasus Mountains are best seen mid-flight, while the Alps and Pyrenees offer stunning sunset colors on evening arrivals. Seasonal snow cover in winter makes the Tianshan and Caucasus ranges particularly breathtaking from this side.

Left Side Highlights
8.1
🌊

Yellow Sea Coastline

Aerial views of the numerous islands and busy shipping lanes off the Korean peninsula shortly after departure.

🏔️

Kunlun Mountains

The southern horizon features the northern edges of the Tibetan Plateau and the massive Kunlun range.

💧

Caspian Sea (South)

View the southern basin of the world's largest inland body of water as the flight enters Western Asia.

🏖️

Turkish Black Sea Coast

Stunning vistas of the rugged Pontic Mountains meeting the deep blue of the southern Black Sea.

🌅

Balearic Sea

Glimpses of the Spanish Mediterranean coast and the mouth of the Ebro River during the descent.

The left side is ideal for avoiding direct glare during the westbound morning hours. Watch for the lights of major Mediterranean cities if your flight arrives in the late evening. For the best views of the Tibetan fringes, look out about 4-5 hours into the flight.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 9,965 km (6,192 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 43 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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