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LEI → BCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Almería International Airport (Almeria) to Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the diverse Spanish Mediterranean coastline, featuring dramatic cliffs, salt lagoons, major cityscapes, and the unique geometry of the Ebro Delta.
Cabo de Gata-Níjar
Wild volcanic rock formations and hidden turquoise coves of Spain's southeastern tip right after takeoff.
Mar Menor Lagoon
The massive saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by the thin, urbanized strip of La Manga.
Alicante and Benidorm
A clear view of the Costa Blanca skyscrapers and the imposing Santa Barbara Castle on its rocky outcrop.
Valencia City
The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences is often visible as the flight passes the Turia riverbed.
Ebro Delta
The spectacular 'bird's beak' shaped wetlands, characterized by a grid of rice paddies and sandy spits.
Montserrat Massif
On the final descent into Barcelona, look inland to see the jagged, multi-peaked sawtooth mountain range.
Sit on the left for the best lighting during afternoon flights, as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the coastline. This side is also superior for spotting the transition from the arid Tabernas desert landscapes to the lush 'Huerta' of Valencia. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing for the Ebro Delta's unique patterns.
Alboran Sea
Deep blue Mediterranean waters with frequent sightings of large cargo vessels and cruise ships.
Ibiza Silhouette
On exceptionally clear days, the western coastline of Ibiza can be spotted on the distant horizon.
Port of Barcelona
A top-down view of one of Europe's busiest ports, filled with colorful shipping containers and ferries.
Barceloneta Beach
During the final turn for landing (Runway 24R), the city's iconic beaches and the W Hotel are visible.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to witness the sunrise over the Mediterranean. While mostly over water, it provides a sense of the vastness of the sea. For the most dramatic view of Barcelona's skyline during landing, hope for an approach from the north which allows the right side to see the entire city grid.
Distance: 626 km (389 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 3 min
Departure: LEI (36.84389877319336, -2.3701000213623047)
Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Route Type: Domestic
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