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PDL → OPO
Which side of the plane to sit from João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada) to Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides the most iconic views, featuring the southern coastline of São Miguel upon departure and the breathtaking panoramic view of the Douro River and Porto city center during the final approach.
Ponta Delgada Waterfront
The capital's harbor, historical center, and scenic marina immediately after takeoff.
Vila Franca do Campo Islet
A perfectly circular volcanic crater partially submerged in the ocean, creating a natural swimming pool.
Douro River Mouth
The spectacular confluence where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean in Porto.
Dom Luís I Bridge
The iconic double-deck iron bridge connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Porto City Center
A dense, UNESCO World Heritage cityscape featuring the Clérigos Tower and red-tiled roofs.
The right side is the clear winner for urban scenery. Aim for a window seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the Porto skyline. Late afternoon flights offer a stunning golden-hour glow over the Ribeira district during landing. Watch for the circular islet of Vila Franca within the first 10 minutes of flight.
Sete Cidades
The massive volcanic caldera and its twin green and blue lakes visible if the flight departs towards the west.
North Shore Cliffs
Dramatic, jagged volcanic cliffs meeting the crashing Atlantic waves along the northern edge of São Miguel.
Port of Leixões
One of Portugal's largest sea ports, visible just before touchdown at Porto airport.
Matosinhos Beach
A popular surf beach and coastal strip located north of the Douro river mouth.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun glare. This side is ideal for seeing the rugged, less-developed northern coastline of the Azores. During the approach to Porto, keep your camera ready for the industrial beauty of the Leixões harbor.
Distance: 1,509 km (938 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 1 min
Departure: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Arrival: OPO (41.2481002808, -8.68138980865)
Route Type: Domestic
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