Loading map...

TFS destination photo
SNN destination photo

TFSSNN

Which side of the plane to sit from Tenerife South Airport (Tenerife) to Shannon Airport (Shannon)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is superior for this route as it tracks the continental shelf, providing views of the Portuguese, Spanish, and French coastlines, alongside a prime view of Mount Teide upon departure.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌋

Mount Teide

Spain's highest peak is the star of the departure, offering an incredible scale of the volcanic crater as the plane turns north.

🏝️

Gran Canaria

Visible to the east across the channel, the round island of Gran Canaria sits prominently on the blue Atlantic.

🌊

Portuguese Coastline

The route often passes near Lisbon and the westernmost points of mainland Europe, showing the dramatic surf of the silver coast.

⚓

Galician Rias

The deep, fjord-like inlets of Northwest Spain are visible before the plane crosses the Bay of Biscay.

🗼

Brittany Peninsula

The western tip of France around Brest is frequently visible, marking the transition into the Celtic Sea.

☘️

Shannon Estuary

On final approach, you get a bird's eye view of the Shannon river, the green fields of Clare, and potentially the Cliffs of Moher.

The right side offers the most landmarks. For the best experience, try to sit behind the wing to ensure your view of Mount Teide isn't obstructed during the climb. On morning flights, the sun will be on this side, so bring sunglasses or a polarising filter for photos. The approach into Shannon often involves a turn over the estuary, which is particularly scenic from this side.

Left Side Highlights
6.2
🏝️

La Gomera

The rugged, circular silhouette of La Gomera is often visible to the west shortly after takeoff from Tenerife South.

🌋

La Palma

On clear days, the steep volcanic slopes of 'Isla Bonita' can be seen further out in the Atlantic during the initial climb.

🌊

Atlantic Horizon

Unobstructed views of the vast ocean, ideal for spotting passing ships or complex cloud formations over the deep sea.

⛰️

Kerry Mountains

During the descent into Shannon, the jagged peninsulas and mountains of Southwest Ireland appear to the west.

Choose the left side for afternoon or evening flights to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic. This side is also better if you prefer the tranquility of open ocean views over the busier coastal scenery on the right. Keep an eye out for the Skellig Islands as you approach the Irish coast if the visibility is high.

Top Activities in Shannon
Route Information

Distance: 2,814 km (1,749 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 45 min

Departure: TFS (28.044500351, -16.5725002289)

Arrival: SNN (52.702, -8.92482)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.