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MAD destination photo
RBA destination photo

MADRBA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views, including the Rock of Gibraltar and the rugged Rif Mountains of Northern Morocco, while avoiding the direct glare of the afternoon sun on southbound flights.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Madrid Skyline

Panoramic views of the Spanish capital's towers and urban sprawl shortly after takeoff from Barajas.

🌾

La Mancha Plains

The vast, geometric agricultural patterns of central Spain, famous for the windmills of Don Quixote.

⛰️

Sierra Morena

The dramatic southern edge of the Iberian plateau, marking the entrance into the Andalusia region.

🪨

Rock of Gibraltar

A clear view of the legendary monolithic limestone promontory at the entrance to the Mediterranean.

🌊

Alboran Sea

The westernmost portion of the Mediterranean Sea where the waters meet the African continent.

🏔️

Rif Mountains

The jagged, often cloud-capped mountain range stretching across Northern Morocco.

Choose a window seat mid-cabin or forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Strait. On afternoon flights, this side is shaded, providing better conditions for photography of the Rock of Gibraltar. The most critical viewing window is approximately 45-55 minutes after takeoff.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏞️

Tagus River Valley

Distant views of the winding river valley that flows westward toward the Portuguese border.

☀️

Andalusian Countryside

Rolling hills and white-washed villages typical of the southern Spanish landscape.

🛳️

Gulf of Cádiz

The wide expanse where the Atlantic Ocean begins its reach around the tip of Spain.

⚓

Tangier City

The white city of Tangier and its major port are visible as the plane crosses into African airspace.

🏖️

Atlantic Seaboard

A continuous view of the sandy beaches and coastal towns as you fly south toward Rabat.

🌅

Atlantic Sunset

Exceptional views of the sun setting over the ocean for flights scheduled in the late evening.

Excellent for sunset lovers on late afternoon flights. During the final approach into Rabat-Salé, this side offers a better view of the Atlantic coastline and the Bou Regreg river estuary. Be aware that morning flights may suffer from heavy sun glare on this side.

Top Activities in Rabat
Route Information

Distance: 768 km (477 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 17 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: RBA (34.051497999999995, -6.751519999999999)

Route Type: International

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