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ORK destination photo
FAO destination photo

ORKFAO

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

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is the clear winner for this route, offering a panoramic view of the world-renowned Cork Harbour on departure and the breathtaking Ria Formosa lagoon system and barrier islands upon arrival in Faro.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🇮🇪

Cork Harbour

Panoramic views of Cobh and the world's second-largest natural harbour immediately after takeoff.

🌊

Bay of Biscay Crossing

Expansive views of the deep Atlantic blue where the continental shelf drops off.

🏔️

Picos de Europa

Distant views of the dramatic, snow-capped limestone peaks in Northern Spain during the transit over the Iberian Peninsula.

🌾

Alentejo Gold

The rolling plains of Southern Portugal, characterized by cork oak forests and golden wheat fields.

🏝️

Ria Formosa Natural Park

An incredible bird's-eye view of the coastal lagoons, sandbars, and turquoise channels just before touchdown.

For the best experience, book a seat in front of the wing to ensure your view of the Ria Formosa wetlands is unobstructed by the engine or wing structure. On morning flights, the sun will be behind the aircraft or to the left, providing excellent lighting for the Irish coastline, though it may cause glare during the mid-flight crossing of Spain.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛳

Old Head of Kinsale

The iconic, narrow peninsula and lighthouse marking the start of the Wild Atlantic Way.

🌊

Rias Baixas

Deep, fjord-like coastal inlets of Galicia visible as the aircraft enters Spanish airspace.

🏔️

Serra da Estrela

Views of the highest mountain range in mainland Portugal, often featuring rugged granite formations.

💧

Alqueva Reservoir

Sightings of one of Europe's largest artificial lakes with its distinctive sprawling shoreline.

🏖️

Barlavento Coast

The dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves of the western Algarve seen during the descent.

The right side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. If the aircraft approaches Faro from the west (Runway 10), this side offers views of the famous Algarve beaches like Vilamoura and Albufeira. Watch for the dramatic change from the green hills of the north to the arid landscapes of the south.

Top Activities in Faro
Route Information

Distance: 1,649 km (1,025 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min

Departure: ORK (51.84130096435547, -8.491109848022461)

Arrival: FAO (37.0144004822, -7.965909957889999)

Route Type: International

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