Loading map...
MAN → BGI
Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Sir Grantley Adams International Airport (Bridgetown)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred primarily for the lighting conditions and the stunning aerial approach into Barbados. Flying westbound across the Atlantic, the Right Side (North) avoids the direct, harsh glare of the southern sun for the majority of the flight. As you approach Grantley Adams International, this side frequently offers iconic views of the island's famous Platinum Coast and the Bridgetown harbor before the final turn for landing.
Llyn Peninsula
Excellent views of the sweeping Welsh coastline and the Irish Sea shortly after takeoff.
Irish Coastline
On clear days, the southern tip of Ireland and the Fastnet Rock can sometimes be spotted to the north.
Atlantic Trade Winds
Spectacular views of 'popcorn' cumulus cloud formations typical of the tropical Atlantic approach.
The Platinum Coast
Panoramic views of Barbados' west coast luxury resorts and calm Caribbean waters during the arrival sequence.
Bridgetown Harbor
Clear sight of the capital and cruise ship terminal as the plane maneuvers for the final approach.
Choose the right side for the best photography conditions, as the sun will be on the opposite side of the plane for the duration of the daytime westbound journey. Watch closely during the last 20 minutes of the flight; if the plane approaches from the North, you will see the entire length of the island's prestigious West Coast. Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to cut through the haze and highlight the vibrant blues of the Caribbean Sea.
Manchester & Cheshire
Immediate views of the Greater Manchester urban sprawl and the green Cheshire plains upon departure.
Snowdonia National Park
Distant views of the rugged Welsh mountains and peaks as the aircraft tracks southwest.
The Celtic Sea
The transition from the rugged coast of Cornwall into the vast, deep blue of the North Atlantic.
Barbados South Coast
During the final seconds of descent, catch views of the turquoise reefs and surf breaks around Silver Sands.
While the left side offers a glimpse of the southern reefs on landing, be prepared for significant sun glare throughout the 8-9 hour crossing as you are facing south. Keep window shades partially lowered mid-flight to reduce cabin heat. This side is better if the flight path tracks closer to the Azores, though they are often too far south to see clearly.
Distance: 6,699 km (4,163 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 53 min
Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)
Arrival: BGI (13.0746002197, -59.4925003052)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.