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NOC → FAO
Which side of the plane to sit from Ireland West Knock Airport (Connaught) to Faro Airport (Faro)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a superior view of the dramatic Atlantic coastlines of Ireland, Galicia, and Portugal, culminating in a beautiful approach over the Algarve's rugged western cliffs.
Cliffs of Moher
The iconic vertical cliffs of County Clare are often visible shortly after departure from Knock as the plane tracks south.
Aran Islands
A glimpse of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr sitting at the mouth of Galway Bay.
Rias Baixas
The deep, fjord-like coastal inlets of Galicia in Northwest Spain, famous for seafood and stunning blue waters.
Silver Coast
The long, sandy stretches of the Portuguese coastline north of Lisbon, showing the powerful Atlantic surf.
Cape St. Vincent
The southwesternmost point of Europe, featuring a lighthouse and dramatic cliffs where the continent ends.
Ria Formosa
The intricate network of lagoons, sandbanks, and islands surrounding Faro, visible during the final approach.
The right side is unbeatable for sunset flights, offering a golden hour view over the Atlantic Ocean. During the descent into Faro, keep your camera ready for the Ria Formosa National Park; it is one of the most colorful coastal views in Europe.
Lough Derg
Aerial views of the Shannon River system and the expansive waters of Lough Derg as you head south from Knock.
Picos de Europa
On clear days, the jagged limestone peaks of Northern Spain are visible in the distance as the plane crosses the Bay of Biscay.
The Spanish Meseta
The high altitude plateau of central Spain, characterized by golden plains and geometric agricultural patterns.
Seville & Andalusia
Potential distant views of the white-washed buildings of Seville and the surrounding olive groves of Southern Spain.
Guadiana River
The natural border between Spain and Portugal, winding through the landscape just before the final descent into Faro.
Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you for better photography of the Spanish interior. This side is also better if the flight path takes a more inland route through central Portugal, offering views of the cork oak forests.
Distance: 1,880 km (1,168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 30 min
Departure: NOC (53.9103012084961, -8.818490028381348)
Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)
Route Type: International
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