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MVD destination photo
MAD destination photo

MVDMAD

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the African coastline during the early morning hours, the crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar, and a picturesque approach over the historic landscapes of central Spain.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🇺🇾

Rio de la Plata

Aerial view of the massive estuary and the Montevideo skyline immediately after takeoff from Carrasco.

🌊

Equatorial Atlantic

Observation of unique cloud formations and the deep blue of the mid-Atlantic as the flight heads northeast.

🇲🇦

Moroccan Coastline

Dramatic views of the Northwest African coast where the Sahara meets the Atlantic Ocean.

🌉

Strait of Gibraltar

A clear view of the narrow waterway separating Africa from Europe, with the Pillars of Hercules visible.

🏰

Andalusian Countryside

The patchwork fields, olive groves, and white-washed villages of southern Spain as you head toward Madrid.

🏙️

Toledo

The historic medieval city perched on a hill, often visible during the final descent into Barajas.

Since this is typically an overnight flight, the best views occur in the final 2-3 hours of the journey. Sunlight will hit the left side of the aircraft during the morning approach into Europe, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Moroccan coast and the Iberian Peninsula. Monitor the flight map for the crossing into Spanish airspace to see the Strait of Gibraltar.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌅

Atlantic Sunrise

Unobstructed views of the sun rising over the horizon as the plane approaches the European continent.

🏝️

Canary Islands

Distant views of the volcanic peaks of Lanzarote or Fuerteventura depending on the specific airway track.

🏜️

Sahara Edges

The vast golden expanse of the Western Sahara desert visible under the morning light.

🏔️

Sierra Morena

The rugged mountain range in southern Spain that marks the transition into the central plateau.

🛬

Madrid Outskirts

Views of the industrial and residential developments of the Henares Corridor during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for passengers who want to watch the sunrise without direct glare, as the sun rises to the east. Keep an eye out for the Canary Islands roughly 2.5 hours before landing. During the summer, the heat haze over the Sahara can be better observed from this side, though it is often further from the primary landmarks than the left side.

Top Activities in Madrid
Route Information

Distance: 9,947 km (6,181 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 42 min

Departure: MVD (-34.838402, -56.0308)

Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Route Type: International

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