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MAN destination photo
GIB destination photo

MANGIB

Which side of the plane to sit from Manchester Airport (Manchester) to Gibraltar Airport (Gibraltar)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior mix of terrestrial landmarks, including the rugged landscapes of the Peak District, the French Atlantic coastline, and a more consistent view of the Spanish interior and the Mediterranean approach to the Rock.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Peak District National Park

Aerial views of the rolling hills and reservoirs of Northern England immediately after departure.

🏖️

Arcachon Bay

The distinctive triangular lagoon and the massive Dune du Pilat are visible on the southwestern French coast.

🏔️

The Pyrenees

On clear days, the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the border range between France and Spain appear on the eastern horizon.

🏰

Castilian Plateau

The high-altitude, ochre-colored plains of central Spain provide a stark and beautiful contrast.

🪨

The Mediterranean Approach

During the standard approach, the left side provides an iconic view of the steep eastern face of the Rock of Gibraltar.

Opt for the left side on morning flights to have the sun behind you for clearer photos of France and Spain. Keep a close watch about 45 minutes after takeoff for the French coastline. During the final descent, the left side is usually the first to see the Rock as the plane turns over the Mediterranean to line up with the runway.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Snowdonia and Wales

Views across the Irish Sea towards the mountainous peaks of North Wales during the initial climb.

🚢

Bay of Biscay

A vast expanse of deep blue water where you can often spot large cargo ships and tankers heading toward the English Channel.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Rugged limestone mountains in Northern Spain are visible as the flight crosses the Cantabrian coast.

🍊

Andalusia

The fertile valleys and white-washed villages of Southern Spain come into view during the descent.

⚓

Bay of Algeciras

Excellent views of the busy Spanish port city and the shipping lanes of the Strait of Gibraltar just before touchdown.

The right side is ideal for afternoon or evening flights to catch spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic. If the aircraft lands on Runway 09 (arriving from the west), the right side offers an incredibly close-up view of the Rock and the airport's unique runway that crosses the main road into the city.

Top Activities in Gibraltar
Route Information

Distance: 1,928 km (1,198 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 34 min

Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)

Arrival: GIB (36.1511993408, -5.3496599197400005)

Route Type: International

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