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MAD → SXF
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Berlin-Schönefeld Airport (Berlin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the high Pyrenees peaks shortly after takeoff and better views of the German industrial heartland and Thuringian forests during the descent.
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The Pyrenees
A magnificent crossing over the jagged, often snow-capped border between Spain and France.
Massif Central
The ancient volcanic plateaus of central France offering unique geological textures.
Rhine River
The legendary European waterway winding through industrial valleys and historic towns.
Thuringian Forest
The 'Green Heart of Germany' with its dense canopy and rolling hills as you enter German airspace.
Leipzig Cityscape
A clear view of the Monument to the Battle of the Nations and the modern city center during descent.
Müggelsee
Berlin's largest lake, providing a scenic water-focused entrance to the capital's airspace.
The right side is unbeatable for the Pyrenees crossing, which occurs approximately 35-45 minutes into the flight. For afternoon flights, this side receives the best lighting on the landscape while the sun sets in the west.
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Sierra de Guadarrama
Dramatic granite peaks and reservoirs visible north of Madrid immediately after departure.
Loire Valley
The 'Garden of France' featuring winding rivers and glimpses of historic chateaus.
Paris Peripheral View
On very clear days and certain flight paths, the distant silhouette of the French capital is visible.
Harz Mountains
The northernmost mountain range in Germany, characterized by the iconic Brocken peak.
Potsdam
The stunning UNESCO-listed palaces and gardens of Potsdam visible during the approach to Berlin.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and avoid glare. This side is also preferred if you want to spot the sprawling lakes of Brandenburg just before landing.
Get eSIMs for Spain
Get eSIMs for GermanyDistance: 1,853 km (1,151 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 28 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: SXF (52.380001, 13.5225)
Route Type: International
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