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MAD → HAV
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to José Martí International Airport (Havana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is generally superior for this route because it avoids the harsh southern sun glare during the long westward flight and offers iconic views of the Cuban coastline and Havana harbor on approach.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Snow-capped peaks north of Madrid visible during the initial climb out of Barajas.
Portuguese Atlantic Coast
The rugged cliffs and white-sand beaches of the Estoril coast as you leave mainland Europe.
The Bahamas Fringe
Distant views of the turquoise shallow waters and small cays of the southern Bahamas.
Varadero Peninsula
The unmistakable 20-kilometer stretch of white sand and turquoise water as you cross into Cuban airspace.
Castillo del Morro
The historic 16th-century fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Bay during the final approach.
This is the 'cool side' of the plane; with the sun to the south, you avoid glare, making it much better for photography. The highlight of this route is the last 30 minutes. Watch for the dramatic change in water color from the deep indigo of the Atlantic to the vibrant neon-turquoise of the Cuban shelf. If landing on Runway 06, you will get a perfect view of the Malecón and Old Havana.
Spanish Meseta Central
The high plateau of central Spain with its characteristic red soil and geometric farm patterns shortly after takeoff.
Gulf of Cádiz
The transition from the Iberian Peninsula to the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Golden Hour
Dramatic sunset views over the Atlantic horizon, as most flights arrive in Havana during late afternoon or evening.
Jardines del Rey
The stunning archipelago and coral reefs off Cuba's northern coast visible during the final descent phase.
While the left side faces the sun for the entire duration of this westward trek, it is the best choice for sunset enthusiasts. If your flight lands after 6:00 PM, you will have a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the Caribbean horizon. Be sure to keep your window shade down mid-flight to avoid cabin overheating.
Distance: 7,462 km (4,637 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 47 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: HAV (22.989200592041016, -82.40910339355469)
Route Type: International
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