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LHR → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from London Heathrow Airport (London) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the London skyline on departure, the expansive French countryside, a dramatic cross-section of the Pyrenees, and the best vantage point for Madrid's city center during many landing patterns.
London Landmarks
If departing to the east, enjoy views of the Thames, Canary Wharf, and the City of London shortly after takeoff.
English Channel Crossing
Clear views of the busy shipping lanes and the transition from the UK coastline to the French shores of Normandy.
Bordeaux Vineyards
As you cruise south, look for the intricate patterns of the world-famous wine estates around the Garonne River.
Central Pyrenees
A spectacular view of the high-altitude peaks and glacial valleys marking the border between France and Spain.
Castilian Plateau
The landscape transforms into the vast, ochre-colored plains of the Meseta Central as you enter the heart of Spain.
Madrid City Center
Depending on the approach into MAD, the left side often provides a clear view of the Cuatro Torres and the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Request a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. This side is particularly scenic during morning flights when the sun illuminates the French coast and the Pyrenees from the east. Keep your camera ready about 1 hour and 15 minutes into the flight for the mountain crossing.
Jurassic Coast
Depending on the departure route, you may catch a glimpse of the Dorset and East Devon coastline's white cliffs.
Brittany Peninsula
Views of the rugged Atlantic coastline of western France and the many islands dotting the Bay of Biscay.
Bay of Biscay
A long stretch of deep blue Atlantic waters, often showcasing impressive wave patterns and passing cargo ships.
Basque Mountains
The green, rolling hills where the western end of the Pyrenees meets the Cantabrian Sea.
Segovia
On the descent from the north, look for the historic city of Segovia and its iconic Roman aqueduct nestled near the mountains.
Sierra de Guadarrama
The final mountain barrier before Madrid, often snow-capped in winter, providing a rugged backdrop to the descent.
Choose the right side if you prefer coastal views and the Atlantic horizon. On late afternoon flights, this side will experience direct sunlight, which may make photography difficult due to glare. Watch for the city of Segovia about 15 minutes before landing for a unique historical landmark sighting.
Distance: 1,246 km (774 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 40 min
Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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