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MAD → UIO
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic entry into the South American continent, featuring the stunning Caribbean coastline of Colombia and the iconic volcanic peaks surrounding the Quito basin during the final descent.
Sierra de Guadarrama
Views of the rugged mountain range north of Madrid during the initial climb and turn toward the Atlantic.
Caribbean Coastline
Striking views of the turquoise waters and white sands near the Colombian coast as the flight transitions from sea to land.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
The world's highest coastal mountain range, often rising above the clouds with snow-capped peaks near the Caribbean.
Pichincha Volcano
The active stratovolcano that looms over Quito, providing a dramatic backdrop during the final banking turns for landing.
This is the cooler side of the plane for daytime flights, avoiding the direct glare of the equatorial sun. For the best experience, try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the deep Andean valleys of Colombia.
Madrid Metro Area
Excellent views of the sprawling Madrid suburbs and the dry plains of the Meseta Central shortly after takeoff from Barajas.
Atlantic Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the vast Atlantic Ocean, perfect for observing cloud formations and the deep blue of the mid-ocean.
Magdalena River Valley
Aerial views of Colombia's principal river snaking through the lush tropical valleys as the flight enters Andean airspace.
Cayambe Volcano
The massive, glacier-capped Cayambe volcano is often visible to the south during the final approach into Mariscal Sucre International.
On daytime flights, this side receives direct southern sunlight, which is excellent for photography but may require keeping the window shade down to manage cabin heat. Look out approximately 30-40 minutes before landing for the first glimpses of the high-altitude Andean paramos.
Distance: 8,737 km (5,429 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 17 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: UIO (-0.129166666667, -78.3575)
Route Type: International
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