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SMA → PDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Santa Maria Airport (Santa Maria (island)) to João Paulo II Airport (Ponta Delgada)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is significantly more scenic as it typically provides a front-row seat to the lush southern coastline of São Miguel and the iconic Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo during the approach.
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Praia Formosa
A glimpse of the beautiful white sand beach on the southern coast of Santa Maria shortly after takeoff.
Ilhéu de Vila Franca
The stunning, perfectly circular submerged volcanic crater islet located just off the shore of São Miguel.
Green Island Landscapes
The emerald green pastures and rolling hills that give São Miguel its famous nickname.
Vila Franca do Campo
Aerial views of the historic town that served as the first capital of the Azores archipelago.
Ponta Delgada City
A comprehensive view of the city's traditional white architecture and black basalt accents upon landing.
Sit on the right for the iconic view of the Ilhéu de Vila Franca. This flight is very short (approx. 20-25 minutes), so keep your camera ready from the moment you reach cruising altitude. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the green cliffs of São Miguel perfectly.
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Atlantic Horizon
Vast, unobstructed views of the deep blue North Atlantic waters between the islands.
SMA Departure
Aerial perspective of the western cliffs of Santa Maria as the plane climbs to cruising altitude.
Ponta Delgada Marina
Views of the cruise ship terminal and the harbor area during the final descent into PDL.
While mostly ocean-facing, the left side is better if you want to avoid direct sunlight during midday flights. It offers a decent view of the Ponta Delgada port facilities if the aircraft approaches from the east (Runway 30).
Get eSIMs for Portugal
Get eSIMs for PortugalDistance: 97 km (60 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 min
Departure: SMA (36.97140121459961, -25.17060089111328)
Arrival: PDL (37.7411994934, -25.6979007721)
Route Type: Domestic
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