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MST → FAO
Which side of the plane to sit from Maastricht Aachen Airport (Maastricht) to Faro Airport (Faro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior mix of dramatic coastal views along the Bay of Biscay, the rugged Picos de Europa mountains, and the iconic aerial view of the Ria Formosa lagoons during the final approach into Faro.
Bay of Biscay
The deep blue expanse of the Atlantic meeting the western French coastline.
Picos de Europa
Jagged limestone mountain ranges in Northern Spain often visible on the horizon.
Alentejo Landscape
The rural charm of southern Portugal with its cork oak forests and traditional white-washed villages.
Ria Formosa
A stunning labyrinth of salt pans, islands, and turquoise lagoons during the descent into FAO.
The right side is essential for the approach into Faro. Most flights land on Runway 28, meaning the right side gets a perfect view of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on this side, so window shades may be needed until the descent begins. Watch for the dramatic cliffs of the western Algarve if the plane loops over the ocean.
Massic Central
View the extinct volcanoes and rolling green highlands of central France.
Central Pyrenees
A high-altitude crossing over the snowy peaks marking the border between France and Spain.
Castilian Plateau
The vast, arid, and golden landscapes of central Spain's high plains.
Guadiana River
The winding water border that separates the Spanish Huelva region from the Portuguese Algarve.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh direct sunlight of the southern trajectory. It offers better views of the Spanish interior and the transition from the Spanish plains to the Atlantic coast. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinct change in soil color as you enter the Algarve.
Distance: 1,890 km (1,174 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 31 min
Departure: MST (50.911701, 5.7701400000000005)
Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)
Route Type: International
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