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PDL → FRA
Which side of the plane to sit from João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada) to Frankfurt am Main Airport (Frankfurt)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the rugged northern coastline of São Miguel upon departure and typically offers better views of the winding Rhine and Moselle rivers during the approach into Frankfurt.
Lagoa do Fogo
Stunning views of the volcanic crater lake and the lush northern ridges of São Miguel Island shortly after takeoff.
Bay of Biscay
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic transitioning into the turquoise waters of the French coastal shelf.
Loire Valley
Aerial perspective of the historic 'Garden of France' featuring winding river bends and scattered châteaux.
Moselle Valley
Geometric patterns of steep-slope vineyards and river loops as the aircraft begins its descent into Germany.
Frankfurt Skyline
A clear view of the 'Mainhattan' skyscrapers and the Commerzbank Arena if the aircraft approaches from the west.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the Azores coastline. For late afternoon flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun during the eastbound cruise across Europe.
Ponta Delgada Harbor
A perfect view of the city's marina, historic center, and the unique fort structure immediately after rotation.
Santa Maria Island
On clear days, the southernmost island of the Azores can be seen appearing on the horizon to the southeast.
La Rochelle Coastline
Views of the French Atlantic islands like Île d'Oléron and the distinctive coastal architecture of western France.
Greater Paris
Depending on the air traffic control routing, the outskirts of Paris and its urban sprawl are often visible in the distance.
Taunus Mountains
Green forested ridges north of the Rhine-Main area visible during the final stages of the approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Atlantic. If the flight lands towards the west (Runway 25), this side offers an excellent view of the Frankfurt airport terminal complex during touchdown.
Distance: 3,032 km (1,884 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Arrival: FRA (50.033333, 8.570556)
Route Type: International
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