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TLV → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Ben Gurion International Airport (Tel-aviv) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is generally superior for this westbound Mediterranean crossing, offering a continuous sequence of the Greek islands, the rugged coastlines of the Peloponnese, and the dramatic mountain ridges of Corsica and Sardinia under optimal lighting conditions.
Rhodes and the Dodecanese
Early in the flight, the aircraft passes north of the Greek islands, offering clear views of their rocky coastlines and deep blue bays.
Crete's White Mountains
The northern coast of Crete is often visible, featuring the dramatic Lefka Ori mountain range which remains snow-capped well into spring.
The Peloponnese
The finger-like peninsulas of southern Greece provide a stunning geographic display of deep gulfs and mountainous terrain.
Strait of Bonifacio
A highlight of the mid-flight, where you can see the narrow gap and white cliffs separating the islands of Sardinia and Corsica.
Mallorca and Menorca
Superb views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range on Mallorca's northern coast as you cross the Balearic Sea.
Spanish Levante Coast
The transition from the deep blue Mediterranean to the rugged interior mountains near Valencia and Castellón.
The right side offers the best lighting for photography on this route as the sun remains on the opposite side of the aircraft. Look out for the snowy peaks of the Greek mountains in winter. During the final descent into MAD, keep an eye out for the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains to the north.
Old Jaffa and Tel Aviv Skyline
Immediately after takeoff from TLV, enjoy a sweeping view of the ancient port of Jaffa and the modern high-rises lining the Mediterranean coast.
Mount Etna
On many flight paths, the smoking peak of Europe's most active volcano in Sicily is visible to the south across the Ionian Sea.
Ibiza and Formentera
The turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Pityusic Islands appear as the aircraft begins its approach toward mainland Spain.
La Mancha Plains
The iconic geometric agricultural patterns and vast arid landscapes of central Spain, famous for Don Quixote's windmills.
Madrid City Center
Depending on the landing configuration, you may see the Cuatro Torres Business Area and the dense urban sprawl of the Spanish capital.
Choose the left side for the best views of the Israeli coastline upon departure and the high-altitude perspective of the Balearic Islands. Note that on afternoon flights, this side will face the sun, which can be bright and cause glare. It is the best side for sunset views as you approach Madrid.
Distance: 3,544 km (2,202 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 10 min
Departure: TLV (32.011398315429695, 34.88669967651367)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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