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NCL destination photo
FAO destination photo

NCLFAO

Which side of the plane to sit from Newcastle Airport (Newcastle) to Faro Airport (Faro)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic Atlantic coastline, the rugged cliffs of Brittany, and the spectacular final approach over the Ria Formosa lagoons.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏞️

The Pennines

Known as the backbone of England, these hills provide a dramatic landscape shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Brittany Coastline

The wild, jagged cliffs and turquoise waters of Northwest France as you enter the Bay of Biscay.

🏖️

Galician Rias

Beautiful, fjord-like inlets along the Northwest coast of Spain, characterized by deep blue water.

🏙️

Lisbon Coast

Views of the Portuguese capital's coastline and the Tagus River estuary in the distance.

🦩

Ria Formosa Lagoons

A breathtaking maze of canals, islands, and white sandbars during the final descent into Faro.

The right side is unbeatable for the approach into Faro (FAO). The aircraft typically performs a U-turn over the Atlantic to line up with Runway 28, offering a perfect view of the Ria Formosa Nature Park. For evening flights, this side catches the sunset over the Atlantic. Try to book a seat ahead of the wing to avoid engine heat haze distorting your photos of the Portuguese coast.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🏙️

Newcastle & Tyne Bridges

Aerial views of the iconic Tyne Bridge and St James' Park immediately after a southerly departure.

⛰️

The Peak District

The rolling limestone valleys and gritstone ridges of central England's oldest national park.

🗼

London Distant Skyline

On clear days, the vast urban sprawl of the capital is visible to the east as you head toward the Channel.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Stunning views of the jagged limestone peaks in Northern Spain as you cross the Bay of Biscay.

🌲

Serra da Estrela

Portugal's highest mountain range, offering rugged granite landscapes and glacial valleys.

Sit on the left for the best morning light during southbound flights. This side provides excellent views of the Spanish interior and the transition from the lush green North to the arid plains of the Alentejo. Look out for the English Channel crossing landmarks like the Solent and the Isle of Wight if the flight path tracks slightly east.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 2,060 km (1,280 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 45 min

Departure: NCL (55.037498474121094, -1.6916699409484863)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

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