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SOF → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Sofia Airport (Sofia) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a more diverse sequence of landmarks, including the Balkan peaks, the Italian coastline near Rome, and the dramatic northern shores of Corsica and Mallorca.
Balkan Mountains
Parallel views of the Stara Planina range as you head west over the Bulgarian-Serbian border.
Dalmatian Archipelago
Distant but stunning views of the Croatian islands dotting the deep blue Adriatic Sea.
Rome & Lazio Coast
As the flight crosses Italy, the Right Side often captures the Tiber river and the outskirts of Rome.
Corsica's Cliffs
The rugged northern coastline and mountainous interior of Corsica provide a dramatic mid-flight highlight.
Palma de Mallorca
A direct view of the largest Balearic island, including the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
Sistema Ibérico
The final mountain barrier before Madrid, offering reddish earth tones and deep valleys during the descent.
For morning flights, the right side is perfect as the sun is on the opposite side, providing clear, shadow-rich views for photography. Look out for the white limestone cliffs of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica.
Rila & Pirin Mountains
Shortly after takeoff from Sofia, view the highest peaks in the Balkans, including the snow-capped Musala.
Albanian Riviera
Glimpse the turquoise waters and rugged coastline where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea.
Southern Sardinia
Aerial views of Cagliari and the unique salt pans located at the southern tip of the island.
Ibiza & Formentera
Clear views of the Balearic Islands' southern cluster appearing as vibrant spots in the Mediterranean.
The Meseta
The vast, golden high plateau of central Spain, characterized by its agricultural patterns and historic towns.
The left side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Mediterranean. However, be aware of direct glare during midday flights heading west. This side is superior for spotting the smaller Balearic Islands like Formentera.
Distance: 2,247 km (1,396 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs
Departure: SOF (42.69669342041016, 23.411436080932617)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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