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ORK destination photo
ALC destination photo

ORKALC

Which side of the plane to sit from Cork Airport (Cork) to Alicante International Airport (Alicante)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more diverse viewing experience, including the historical Cork Harbor at takeoff, the possibility of seeing the French coast, and the vibrant pink salt lakes of Santa Pola during the final approach into Alicante.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Cork Harbour & Cobh

A stunning view of the world's second-largest natural harbor, including the spire of St. Colman's Cathedral.

🏖️

Brittany Coastline

On clear days, the rugged peninsulas and islands of western France may be visible as you cross the Bay of Biscay.

⛰️

Eastern Pyrenees

Distant views of the high peaks separating France and Spain, often capped with snow in winter and spring.

🏙️

Valencia Coastline

Views of the sprawling city of Valencia and the distinctive Albufera lagoon as you track south along the Mediterranean.

🦩

Santa Pola Salt Lakes

Vibrant pink and blue evaporation ponds just south of the airport, often visible during the final descent.

For morning flights, the left side is ideal as the sun will be behind you or to the side, highlighting the Spanish coast without glare. If the aircraft lands from the north (Runway 10), this side offers the best view of the salt lakes and the Mediterranean shoreline. Keep an eye out for the island of Tabarca during the final turn.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
⛳

Old Head of Kinsale

The dramatic, narrow peninsula of the Old Head is often visible shortly after departure from Cork.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

Deep blue expanses of the North Atlantic, where you might spot large cargo ships or whitecaps on the waves.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Jagged limestone peaks in Northern Spain that provide a dramatic transition from sea to land.

🏜️

The Meseta Central

The vast, high-altitude plateau of central Spain, characterized by golden fields and ancient villages.

⛰️

Sierra de Mariola

Rugged, aromatic mountain ranges of the Alicante interior visible as the plane begins its descent.

The right side is perfect for sunset flights, offering spectacular views of the sun dipping into the Atlantic or behind the Spanish mountains. On a southern approach (Runway 28), you will get a great view of the Castle of Santa Barbara and the Alicante city center as the plane turns toward the runway.

Top Activities in Alicante
Route Information

Distance: 1,629 km (1,012 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 10 min

Departure: ORK (51.84130096435547, -8.491109848022461)

Arrival: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)

Route Type: International

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