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MAD → GYE
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (Guayaquil)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the most dramatic portion of the flight: the descent through the Ecuadorian Andes, often revealing massive volcanoes like Cotopaxi and Antisana, along with a sweeping view of the Guayas River on final approach.
Madrid Skyline
Aerial views of the Spanish capital's southern suburbs and business districts shortly after takeoff.
Atlantic Deep
The vast, deep blue expanse of the mid-Atlantic during the mid-flight cruise.
Colombian Massif
Rugged peaks of the central and eastern cordilleras as the flight enters South American airspace.
Avenue of Volcanoes
Breathtaking glimpses of snow-capped Ecuadorian peaks such as Cotopaxi or Cayambe during the descent.
Guayas River Delta
The winding river system and the lush tropical landscape surrounding Guayaquil just before landing.
Choose this side for the iconic 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' view. The descent into GYE often tracks south along the Andean range; clear weather is most common in the morning or early afternoon. Keep your camera ready as you pass the equator to capture the high-altitude glaciers. Ensure you are seated forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the mountain peaks.
Sierra de Guadarrama
To the northwest of Madrid, these granite peaks are visible if the plane takes off towards the north.
Atlantic Coastline
The rugged cliffs and beaches of Portugal as the aircraft leaves the European continent.
Caribbean Basin
Distant views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea or the northern coast of South America depending on the flight path.
Chocó Rainforest
The dense, cloud-shrouded green canopy of the Colombian Pacific lowlands.
Gulf of Guayaquil
Expansive views of the Pacific coastline and the salt marshes of the Estero Salado on approach.
The right side is excellent for capturing the sunset over the Atlantic on afternoon departures from Madrid. As you approach Guayaquil, you will have a better view of the coastal peninsulas and the transition from the Pacific Ocean to the Guayas estuary. During the transatlantic crossing, this side typically receives less direct, harsh sunlight, making it more comfortable for reading or using screens.
Distance: 9,014 km (5,601 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 36 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: GYE (-2.15741991997, -79.88359832760001)
Route Type: International
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