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MAD → PUJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Punta Cana International Airport (Punta Cana)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer a scenic departure from Spain, the Right Side is superior for the arrival phase, providing iconic views of the Dominican Republic's lush northern coastline and the vibrant turquoise coral reefs of Punta Cana.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Jagged mountain peaks north of Madrid, often snow-capped in winter, visible during the initial climb.
Portuguese Atlantic Coast
The dramatic transition from the Iberian landmass to the deep blue of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Samaná Peninsula
The lush, tropical landscapes and deep bays of the northern Dominican Republic as the aircraft begins its descent.
Punta Cana Reef System
Stunning views of the underwater coral structures and shifting shades of turquoise water near the shore.
Bávaro Resort Strip
A bird's-eye view of the world-famous white sand beaches and luxury resorts just before touchdown.
The right side is essential for the arrival into PUJ. Most transatlantic flights approach from the northeast, making the Samaná Peninsula and the coastline visible only from this side. For the best photography of the coral reefs, ensure your window is clean before descent, as the high humidity in the Caribbean can cause external fogging upon landing.
Madrid Metropolitan Area
Aerial views of the sprawling Spanish capital and the Manzanares River basin shortly after takeoff.
Castilian Meseta
The high, golden plateau of central Spain characterized by vast agricultural fields and historic villages.
Atlantic Sunset
Since most MAD-PUJ flights depart in the afternoon, this side offers a front-row seat to the sun setting over the ocean.
Saona Island View
Possible distant views of the white sand beaches of Saona Island if the flight path tracks slightly south on approach.
The left side is the 'sunset side' for the majority of the flight. If you are flying in the winter months, the sun will be lower in the sky; use the window shade to prevent glare while looking for the Portuguese coast early in the flight. This side is typically quieter for sleeping as it faces away from the most common approach path traffic.
Distance: 6,570 km (4,082 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 44 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: PUJ (18.567399978599997, -68.36340332030001)
Route Type: International
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