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NTE → BCN
Which side of the plane to sit from Nantes Atlantique Airport (Nantes) to Barcelona International Airport (Barcelona)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers views of the Loire Valley at departure, the high peaks of the central Pyrenees during the crossing, and a spectacular panorama of the Barcelona skyline and Mediterranean coast upon arrival.
Loire Valley
Aerial views of the historic Loire River and the outskirts of Nantes immediately after takeoff.
Marais Poitevin
The 'Green Venice' of France, visible as a vast network of canals and lush wetlands.
Central Pyrenees
Dramatic views of the highest peaks including Aneto, often snow-capped even in late spring.
Montserrat
The unique, jagged multi-peaked mountain range hosting the famous Benedictine abbey north of Barcelona.
Barcelona Cityscape
Unrivaled views of the Sagrada Família, Agbar Tower, and the Eixample district grid during the descent.
Port Vell
The historic harbor and Barceloneta beaches just before touchdown at El Prat.
Sit on the left for the iconic Barcelona 'city loop' approach. For morning flights, be aware of the sun's glare coming from the east; afternoon flights offer the best lighting for photography of the Pyrenees and the Catalan coast. Watch for the Sagrada Familia specifically when the plane begins its final turn toward the runway.
Atlantic Coastline
Panoramic views of the Bay of Biscay and the rugged shores of the Vendée region.
Dune du Pilat
Depending on the flight path, you may spot the tallest sand dune in Europe near Arcachon.
Les Landes Forest
One of the largest maritime pine forests in Europe, creating a vast green carpet below.
Western Pyrenees
The rolling green mountains near the Basque country as you cross the border into Spain.
Inner Catalonia
Views of the diverse landscape of the Bages and Vallès regions before landing.
The right side is excellent for coastal lovers during the first half of the flight. If the airport is operating on a 'West configuration' for landing, you might see the Garraf Massif and Sitges. It is generally the 'shady side' on southbound midday flights, making it easier to look out without squinting.
Distance: 714 km (444 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: NTE (47.15319824220001, -1.61073005199)
Arrival: BCN (41.2971, 2.07846)
Route Type: International
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