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LAD โ FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from Quatro de Fevereiro Airport (Luanda) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an optimal vantage point for the most iconic landmarks of the journey, including a spectacular sunrise over the Mediterranean and the most dramatic views of the Swiss Alps, all while avoiding the direct morning sun glare.
Luanda Bay
An evening departure offers a stunning view of the illuminated Luanda skyline and the curved coastline of the peninsula.
Mediterranean Sunrise
Experience the transition from the African continent to Europe as the sun rises over the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean.
Sardinia and Corsica
The rugged, mountainous terrain of these Mediterranean islands is often visible as you head north toward the European mainland.
Bernese Oberland
Unrivaled views of the high Swiss Alps, including world-famous peaks like the Eiger, Mรถnch, and Jungfrau.
Rhine River Valley
As the plane descends into Frankfurt, the winding Rhine River and its historic hillside castles provide a grand finale to the trip.
On this predominantly overnight route, the left side is best for catching the sunrise without looking directly into it. The most critical viewing window is approximately 60-90 minutes before landing, when the flight crosses the Alps. For the best photography of the Swiss peaks, ensure your window is clean and free of condensation from the overnight flight.
The Congo Basin
The vast, dark expanse of the African rainforest is visible under the stars or moonlight during the early flight hours.
Aรฏr Mountains
In the pre-dawn light, the unique granite massifs of northern Niger emerge from the Saharan sands.
Ligurian Coast
Distant views of the Italian Riviera and the lights of coastal cities like Genoa as the plane enters European airspace.
Eastern Alps
Views of the jagged limestone peaks of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps as the flight path skirts the eastern mountain range.
Frankfurt Skyline
A potential view of the 'Mainhattan' financial district if the aircraft is vectored for a landing from the east.
The right side will experience significant sun glare shortly after dawn, so keep your window shade down during the Sahara crossing to stay rested. If the weather is clear over central Europe, look out for the shimmering lakes of northern Italy and southern Germany. Be prepared for a sharp right turn on approach which can provide a brief but intense view of the Frankfurt airport complex.
Distance: 6,564 km (4,079 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 43 min
Departure: LAD (-8.858369999999999, 13.2312)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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