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OPO → FNC
Which side of the plane to sit from Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto) to Madeira Airport (Funchal)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is highly recommended for the iconic approach into Madeira, offering a front-row seat to the island's dramatic volcanic cliffs and the airport's world-famous engineering.
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Silver Coast
Beautiful stretches of white sandy beaches along the Portuguese coastline during departure.
Porto Santo Island
A clear view of the neighboring 'Golden Island' and its long sandy beach about 15 minutes before landing.
Ponta de São Lourenço
The dramatic, arid eastern peninsula of Madeira with its striking orange and brown volcanic rock.
Airport Runway Columns
An incredible view of the 180 concrete pillars supporting the extended runway as the plane banks for landing.
Machico Valley
Terraced hillsides and traditional white houses of one of Madeira's oldest towns during the final turn.
The right side provides the best experience for the famous 'curved approach' into FNC. Watch for Porto Santo first, then look for the dramatic cliffs of São Lourenço. This side is especially scenic during sunset flights as the sun dips into the Atlantic.
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Douro River Mouth
Aerial view of the Douro meeting the Atlantic Ocean just after takeoff from Porto.
Historic Porto
A glimpse of the city's red-tiled roofs and the Ribeira district during the initial climb.
Aveiro Lagoon
The intricate waterways and salt pans of the 'Venice of Portugal' visible as you head south.
Atlantic Horizon
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic and unique maritime cloud formations mid-flight.
Desertas Islands
Small, rugged volcanic islands located just southeast of Madeira, visible during the final descent.
The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. During takeoff, keep your camera ready for the Porto cityscape. On the descent, look out for the Desertas Islands, a nature reserve home to Mediterranean monk seals.
Get eSIMs for Portugal
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 1,191 km (740 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min
Departure: OPO (41.2481002808, -8.68138980865)
Arrival: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Route Type: Domestic
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