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MAN → BFS
Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Belfast International Airport (Belfast)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of coastal landmarks and geographic variety, including the Blackpool coastline, the Isle of Man, and the scenic Antrim Hills upon arrival in Northern Ireland.
Blackpool Tower
Clear views of the iconic tower and the Pleasure Beach as you track north along the Fylde coast.
Morecambe Bay
The dramatic tidal sands of the bay with the Lake District fells visible in the distance on clear days.
Isle of Man
The flight path often passes directly north of the island, offering a full view of Snaefell and the northern coastline.
Carrickfergus Castle
Views of the historic Norman castle and the northern shores of Belfast Lough during the descent.
Antrim Plateau
The lush green landscapes and rolling hills characteristic of the Northern Irish countryside.
The right side is generally more scenic for this short hop. For the best views of the Isle of Man, choose a seat forward of the wing to avoid engine exhaust distortion. Morning flights provide the best lighting for the Antrim coastline.
Manchester City Center
Aerial views of the Manchester skyline and Old Trafford stadium shortly after departure.
North Wales Coast
Glimpses of the Great Orme at Llandudno and the distant peaks of the Snowdonia mountain range.
The Irish Sea
Expansive views of the maritime traffic and offshore wind farms between the UK and Ireland.
Lough Neagh
View of the southern shores of the UK's largest freshwater lake during the final approach.
Sit on the left for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Irish Sea. This side is also better if the aircraft uses a southerly approach path over Strangford Lough into Belfast.
Distance: 295 km (183 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Arrival: BFS (54.6575012207, -6.21582984924)
Route Type: Domestic
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