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LBA destination photo
FNC destination photo

LBA → FNC

Which side of the plane to sit from Leeds Bradford Airport (Leeds) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a more dramatic perspective of the Atlantic approach, offering the first silhouette of Porto Santo and the rugged northern coastline of Madeira before the final turn into Funchal.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
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Welsh Coastline

Distant views of the Snowdonia mountains and the Cardigan Bay coastline as the flight exits the UK.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

A vast expanse of the Atlantic where the deep blue water meets the continental shelf, often showing distinct color changes.

🏝️

Porto Santo Island

The golden-sand neighbor of Madeira is typically the first piece of Macaronesian land sighted on the descent.

⛰️

Madeira North Coast

Dramatic, sheer cliffs and emerald-green volcanic peaks as the aircraft maneuvers around the island's eastern tip.

🚤

Funchal Bay

A panoramic view of the capital city nestled in a natural amphitheater as the plane prepares to touch down.

The right side is ideal for the 'Madeira reveal.' Choose a window seat away from the wing for unobstructed views of the cliffs. Since this is a north-to-south flight, the sun will be on the left for much of the day, meaning the right side often enjoys softer, indirect light which is perfect for photography.

Left Side Highlights
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🏙️

Leeds and West Yorkshire

Aerial views of the urban landscape of Leeds and the surrounding industrial heritage sites immediately after takeoff.

🌳

The Cotswolds

Scenic views of the English countryside's rolling green hills and stone villages as the flight heads south.

🏰

Brittany Peninsula

The jagged coastline of Northwest France often becomes visible as the plane crosses the English Channel.

✈️

FNC Runway Pillars

An incredible view of the engineering marvel supporting the Funchal airport runway as the plane banks for its final approach.

Sit on the left if you want a detailed look at the airport's famous stilt-supported runway during the final seconds of the landing. This side also offers better views of the mainland European coastline if the flight path stays closer to the French and Spanish shores.

Top Activities in Funchal
Route Information

Distance: 2,640 km (1,640 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 31 min

Departure: LBA (53.86589813232422, -1.6605700254440308)

Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)

Route Type: International

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