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LTN → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from London Luton Airport (London) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a more dramatic perspective, featuring the French Atlantic coastline, the Bay of Biscay, and the rugged Sierra de Guadarrama mountains during the descent into Madrid.
Chiltern Hills
Immediate views of the rolling green landscapes of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty west of Luton.
French Atlantic Coast
The rugged western edges of Normandy and Brittany, followed by the long sandy stretches of the Silver Coast.
Bay of Biscay
Vast ocean views where the deep blue water meets the northern Spanish coast near San Sebastian.
Western Pyrenees
The dramatic meeting point of the mountains and the sea as you cross from France into the Basque Country.
Sierra de Guadarrama
A stunning mountain range northwest of Madrid, frequently snow-capped from November through April.
The right side is the 'cool' side for morning departures, keeping the cabin shaded. The highlight is the final approach; the plane often banks over the Sierra de Guadarrama, providing an incredible close-up of the peaks. In summer, watch for the stark color contrast between the green French forests and the arid, red-soiled Spanish Meseta.
Greater London
Distant views of the London skyline and the M25 orbital motorway shortly after takeoff.
The English Channel
High-altitude views of one of the world's busiest shipping lanes and the French coastline near Dieppe.
Loire Valley
The winding Loire River and the historic landscape of central France, known for its royal chateaus.
Central Pyrenees
The highest peaks of the mountain range dividing France and Spain, often visible to the south-east.
Rioja Wine Region
The patchwork of vineyards and the Ebro River valley as the flight enters Spanish airspace.
Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to benefit from the sun being on the opposite side, which reduces glare for photography. Keep an eye out for the Ebro River's distinctive curves. On arrival at Barajas, the left side often provides a great view of the award-winning architecture of Terminal 4.
Distance: 1,291 km (802 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: LTN (51.87469863891602, -0.36833301186561584)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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