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MAD → VLC
Which side of the plane to sit from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid) to Valencia Airport (Valencia)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most comprehensive view of the Spanish interior's rugged mountains and the iconic futuristic architecture of Valencia's city center during the final approach.
Madrid Skyline
Detailed views of the Four Towers Business Area and the historic city center immediately after takeoff from Barajas.
Serranía de Cuenca
Dramatic limestone landscapes and jagged rock formations as the flight crosses into the Castilla-La Mancha region.
Contreras Reservoir
A massive, bright turquoise body of water nestled within deep canyons on the border of Cuenca and Valencia.
Sierra Calderona
The final mountain range before the coast, featuring dense Mediterranean pine forests and rocky peaks.
City of Arts and Sciences
The world-famous white futuristic structures designed by Santiago Calatrava are usually visible on the left during the descent.
For the best lighting, choose an early morning flight to see the sunrise over the Mediterranean without glare. The left side is essential for spotting Valencia's urban landmarks, as most flight paths into VLC bank toward the north before landing.
Castilla-La Mancha Plains
The quintessential Spanish landscape of vast agricultural grids and historic windmills scattered across the plateau.
Alarcón Fortress
A stunning medieval castle perched on a narrow peninsula surrounded by the Júcar River.
Requena Vineyards
Extensive vineyards that create a beautiful patchwork pattern, turning vibrant green in summer and gold in autumn.
L'Albufera Natural Park
Spain's largest freshwater lagoon and its surrounding rice paddies, creating a mirror-like effect near the coastline.
Port of Valencia
The massive logistics hub and container terminals of one of the Mediterranean's busiest maritime gateways.
The right side is superior for sunset flights as the sun dips behind the mountains of the interior. If the aircraft approaches from the sea, this side offers the best view of the Albufera lake and the southern beaches of the Costa Blanca.
Distance: 284 km (176 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Arrival: VLC (39.4893, -0.481625)
Route Type: Domestic
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