While left offers decent Berlin departure views, the right side dominates the flight with exceptional scenery during the long Atlantic crossing and especially the dramatic Madeira arrival. The volcanic landscape and coastal cliffs of Madeira are far more visually striking than the flat Brandenburg plains.
Flown BER to FNC? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Berlin to Funchal is 2,028 miles (3,264 km), a flight of about 4 hours 50 minutes.
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic with occasional ship traffic), Iberian Peninsula coastline (Spain/Portugal border region visible around 2-hour mark), Portuguese coast approaching Madeira, gradual transition from temperate European landscape to subtropical Atlantic island terrain
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from BER
LEFTLeft side offers views of Berlin's urban sprawl and the surrounding lakes of the Brandenburg region as you climb out westward. The Spree River and Müggel Lake are visible in the initial climb phase before heading southwest toward the Atlantic.
Landing at FNC
RIGHTRight side provides dramatic views of Madeira's volcanic terrain and the steep coastal cliffs as you descend toward Funchal. The island's mountainous spine and the dramatic northern coast are best seen from the right during approach from the northeast.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
Pick a date and time in the Sun Map to watch the sun move across your whole flight.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Berlin to Funchal. While left offers decent Berlin departure views, the right side dominates the flight with exceptional scenery during the long Atlantic crossing and especially the dramatic Madeira arrival. The volcanic landscape and coastal cliffs of Madeira are far more visually striking than the flat Brandenburg plains.
What can I see during takeoff from Berlin Brandenburg in Berlin?
During takeoff from Berlin Brandenburg (BER), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side offers views of Berlin's urban sprawl and the surrounding lakes of the Brandenburg region as you climb out westward. The Spree River and Müggel Lake are visible in the initial climb phase before heading southwest toward the Atlantic. Notable sights include: Spree River (winding through central Berlin), Müggel Lake (southeast of city center), Berlin-Tegel area urban grid, Grunewald Forest (western edge of metro area).
What can I see when landing at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal?
When landing at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side provides dramatic views of Madeira's volcanic terrain and the steep coastal cliffs as you descend toward Funchal. The island's mountainous spine and the dramatic northern coast are best seen from the right during approach from the northeast. Notable sights include: Pico Ruivo (3,105 m central peak, visible as dark ridge), Madeira's northern coastal cliffs (1,000+ meter drops), Funchal harbor and city waterfront, Atlantic Ocean meeting black volcanic coastline.
How long is the flight from Berlin to Funchal?
The flight from Berlin Brandenburg (BER) to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) takes about 4 hours 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 2,028 miles (3,264 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Berlin to Funchal flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay (open Atlantic with occasional ship traffic), Iberian Peninsula coastline (Spain/Portugal border region visible around 2-hour mark), Portuguese coast approaching Madeira, gradual transition from temperate European landscape to subtropical Atlantic island terrain