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MAN destination photo
SNN destination photo

MANSNN

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more dramatic view of the mountainous regions, including the Snowdonia range in Wales and the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, followed by a scenic approach along the River Shannon.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🏔️

Snowdonia National Park

Aerial views of the rugged peaks and glacial landforms of North Wales, including Snowdon.

🌊

St George's Channel

The deep blue waters of the Irish Sea crossing between the Welsh and Irish coasts.

⛰️

Wicklow Mountains

The largest continuous upland area in Ireland, featuring granite peaks and deep valleys.

🏞️

Lough Derg

One of Ireland's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a massive blue expanse in the midlands.

🐄

Golden Vale

Lush, fertile pastures of County Limerick and Tipperary visible during the descent.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare while viewing the Welsh mountains. Shortly after takeoff from MAN, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct peak of Snowdon. As you approach Shannon, the left side usually offers a better view of the winding River Shannon as the plane aligns for the runway.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🏙️

Liverpool Skyline

The iconic Mersey waterfront and the historic Royal Liver Building are visible shortly after departure.

🏝️

Isle of Anglesey

The northern coastline of Wales and the impressive infrastructure of the Menai Strait bridges.

🍀

Dublin Bay

On clear days, the sprawl of Ireland's capital and the Great South Wall can be seen to the north.

🧩

The Midlands

The classic 'forty shades of green' in the form of patchwork fields and peat bogs.

⚓

Shannon Estuary

The massive estuary where the river meets the sea, featuring heavy shipping and wind farms.

The right side is the best choice for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean as you arrive into Shannon. If the flight takes a more northerly path, you may also catch a glimpse of the Isle of Man in the distance over the Irish Sea. Look for the distinctive white wind turbines dotted across the Irish landscape as you cross the Shannon Estuary.

Top Activities in Shannon
Route Information

Distance: 450 km (280 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 45 min

Departure: MAN (53.35369873046875, -2.2749500274658203)

Arrival: SNN (52.702, -8.92482)

Route Type: International

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