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LEJ destination photo
FNC destination photo

LEJFNC

Which side of the plane to sit from Leipzig/Halle Airport (Leipzig) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the iconic Portuguese coastline and the dramatic final approach into Funchal, often showcasing the island's unique airport architecture.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Leipzig Skyline

Excellent views of the Red Bull Arena and Völkerschlachtdenkmal shortly after takeoff from LEJ.

🏰

Loire Valley

Aerial views of the winding Loire River and historical French châteaux in central France.

🍷

Porto & Douro

A stunning perspective of the Douro River meeting the Atlantic Ocean at the city of Porto.

🌉

Lisbon Coastline

Views of the Tagus estuary and the 25 de Abril Bridge as you track south along the Portuguese coast.

🏗️

FNC Runway Pillars

A world-class view of the massive concrete pillars supporting the Madeira airport runway during final approach.

Choose a window seat on the left for the best chance to see the Portuguese coast. On the final approach to Funchal (Runway 05), the left side offers the most direct view of the terminal and the famous runway extension. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare for photography.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Eifel Mountains

Volcanic landscapes and dense forests of western Germany during the first hour of flight.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

The deep blue expanse of the Atlantic where it meets the northern coast of Spain.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Jagged limestone peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains visible as you cross northern Spain.

🏖️

Galician Rias

The dramatic, fjord-like inlets of the Spanish northwest coast.

🏝️

Porto Santo

The neighboring 'Golden Isle' is often visible on the right during the initial descent into Madeira.

The right side is excellent for catching the sunset on late afternoon or evening flights. It provides a vast oceanic perspective and is the best side to spot Porto Santo, Madeira's sister island, shortly before landing. Keep an eye out for the rugged northern Spanish coastline after crossing the Bay of Biscay.

Top Activities in Funchal
Route Information

Distance: 3,137 km (1,949 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 41 min

Departure: LEJ (51.423889, 12.236389)

Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)

Route Type: International

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