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SCQ → ACE
Which side of the plane to sit from Santiago de Compostela Airport (Santiago) to Lanzarote Airport (Arrecife)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for the Galician Rias and the rugged Atlantic coastline of Portugal, followed by a dramatic descent past the Chinijo Archipelago islets.
Rías Baixas
The deep, fjord-like coastal inlets of southern Galicia shortly after takeoff, showing where the mountains meet the sea.
Cíes Islands
The pristine white sands and turquoise waters of these protected islands off the coast of Vigo are often visible if clear.
Atlantic Sea Lanes
Expansive views of the deep blue Atlantic and major shipping routes heading toward the Strait of Gibraltar.
Chinijo Archipelago
Spectacular views of the uninhabited islets of Alegranza and Montaña Clara just north of Lanzarote during the approach.
Arrecife Shoreline
Detailed views of Lanzarote's iconic white-washed coastal settlements and rugged volcanic cliffs on the final approach leg.
The right side is ideal for coastal scenery enthusiasts. The approach to Lanzarote (ACE) typically comes from the north, offering a prime view of the Chinijo Archipelago islets—a sight usually missed from the left. For afternoon flights, be prepared for some sun glare on this side; polarizing sunglasses are highly recommended.
Galician Interior
Aerial views of the lush, rolling hills and green valleys of inland Galicia during the initial climb out of SCQ.
Greater Lisbon
Distant views of the Portuguese capital and the expansive Tagus River estuary roughly halfway through the journey.
Algarve Coast
The southern edge of Portugal visible as the flight transitions over the open waters of the Gulf of Cádiz.
Volcanic Ridges
Initial glimpses of Lanzarote's unique lunar-like interior and craters during the final descent into Arrecife.
Choose the left side for inland geography and better lighting during evening flights to avoid direct western sun glare. Watch for the dramatic shift from the green landscapes of Iberia to the arid volcanic terrain of the Canaries as you approach the destination.
Distance: 1,619 km (1,006 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 10 min
Departure: SCQ (42.89630126953125, -8.415140151977539)
Arrival: ACE (28.945499, -13.6052)
Route Type: Domestic
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