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MAD → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers dramatic views of the Sierra de Guadarrama upon departure from Madrid, potential sightings of the Azores, and the best vantage point for the Costa Rican volcanic chain during the descent into San Jose.
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Sierra de Guadarrama
Spectacular views of the rugged mountain range north of Madrid immediately after departure.
The Azores Archipelago
Depending on the daily flight track, you may spot the lush volcanic islands of the Azores mid-Atlantic.
The Greater Antilles
Bird's-eye views of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica's turquoise coastlines.
Poás and Barva Volcanoes
Stunning views of the active craters and cloud forests of the Central Volcanic Range on the final descent.
Central Valley Coffee Plantations
The patchwork of green coffee farms covering the hillsides surrounding Alajuela.
The right side is ideal for a westward transatlantic flight because it faces north, providing soft, indirect light that is perfect for photography. Aim for a seat ahead of or behind the wing to see the Costa Rican volcanoes (Poás and Irazú) which are almost always visible to the north when approaching SJO from the northeast.
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Toledo and the Meseta
Aerial views of the historic Spanish plains and the Tagus River valley shortly after takeoff.
The Deep Atlantic
Expansive views of the ocean where the sun creates a shimmering 'glint' effect during the afternoon.
Cerro Chirripó
As you enter Costa Rican airspace, look for the highest peak in the country within the Talamanca Range.
Southern San Jose
The urban sprawl of the Central Valley and the Escazú mountains during the final approach.
The left side faces south during this westward journey, meaning you will have direct sunlight for most of the flight. This is great for warmth but may require closing the window shade to avoid glare. On descent into SJO, this side offers views of the more rugged, mountainous terrain of southern Costa Rica.
Get eSIMs for Spain
Get eSIMs for Costa RicaDistance: 8,500 km (5,282 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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