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PDL → TER
Which side of the plane to sit from João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada) to Lajes Airport (Lajes (terceira Island))?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Azores, including the Sete Cidades crater shortly after takeoff and the historic city of Angra do Heroísmo during the approach to Terceira.
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Sete Cidades Crater
A breathtaking view of the twin green and blue lakes inside a massive volcanic caldera on the western end of São Miguel.
Pico Mountain
On clear days, Portugal's highest peak is visible as a majestic cone rising from the distant western horizon.
Angra do Heroísmo
The UNESCO World Heritage capital of Terceira, featuring the distinct Monte Brasil peninsula and red-roofed historic center.
Ilhéus das Cabras
Two volcanic islets located off the southern coast of Terceira, offering a unique geological perspective during descent.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see Sete Cidades immediately after takeoff from PDL. Since the flight is extremely short, usually under 45 minutes, visibility depends heavily on low-level cloud cover. Morning flights are recommended as afternoon sea mists can often obscure the volcanic craters.
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North Shore Cliffs
Dramatic views of the rugged, basaltic northern coastline of São Miguel as the plane turns toward Terceira.
Serra do Cume
Known as the 'Patchwork Quilt,' these vibrant green pastures divided by volcanic stone walls are iconic to Terceira.
Praia da Vitória Bay
A wide aerial view of one of the few large sandy bays in the Azores and its bustling marina.
Lajes Air Base
The expansive infrastructure of the joint military and civil airfield, visible just before touchdown.
The right side is excellent for seeing the inland agricultural beauty of Terceira, specifically the patchwork fields of Serra do Cume during a northern approach. To avoid sun glare on the ocean surface, choose this side for afternoon flights when the sun is in the southwest.
Book Hotels in Lajes (terceira Island)Distance: 166 km (103 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 17 min
Departure: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Arrival: TER (38.761799, -27.090799)
Route Type: Domestic
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