While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic and varied scenery on the left side. Passengers will see the full eastern profile of São Miguel Island, the volcanic calderas, and the approach to Ponta Delgada harbor—more visually rewarding than the departure view of Flores.
Flown FLW to PDL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Flores to Ponta Delgada is 316 miles (509 km), a flight of about 1 hour 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses open Atlantic Ocean between the two islands. In clear conditions, passengers may glimpse other Azores islands (São Jorge, Pico, or Terceira) to the south depending on exact routing, though these will appear as distant landmasses on the horizon. The midpoint offers primarily open ocean views with no major landmarks—the most scenic portions are the departure from Flores and arrival at São Miguel.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from FLW
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Flores Island's dramatic volcanic terrain and the surrounding Atlantic waters. The aircraft will climb southeastward toward Ponta Delgada, giving right-side passengers the best perspective of the island's interior peaks and coastal cliffs during the initial climb.
Landing at PDL
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Ponta Delgada. The approach typically comes from the northwest, and left-side passengers will see São Miguel Island's eastern coastline, the city of Ponta Delgada itself, and the Sete Cidades volcanic calderas in the interior as the aircraft descends.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Flores (FLW) to Ponta Delgada (PDL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Flores to Ponta Delgada. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach provides more dramatic and varied scenery on the left side. Passengers will see the full eastern profile of São Miguel Island, the volcanic calderas, and the approach to Ponta Delgada harbor—more visually rewarding than the departure view of Flores.
What can I see during takeoff from Flores in Flores?
During takeoff from Flores (FLW), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Flores Island's dramatic volcanic terrain and the surrounding Atlantic waters. The aircraft will climb southeastward toward Ponta Delgada, giving right-side passengers the best perspective of the island's interior peaks and coastal cliffs during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Morro Alto (highest point on Flores at 2,351 m), Fajã Grande coastal settlement on the western shore, Atlantic Ocean extending westward, Corvo Island visible to the northeast in clear conditions.
What can I see when landing at Ponta Delgada in Ponta Delgada?
When landing at Ponta Delgada (PDL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Ponta Delgada. The approach typically comes from the northwest, and left-side passengers will see São Miguel Island's eastern coastline, the city of Ponta Delgada itself, and the Sete Cidades volcanic calderas in the interior as the aircraft descends. Notable sights include: Ponta Delgada city and harbor, Sete Cidades crater lakes (visible in clear conditions from altitude), São Miguel's eastern coastline and Nordeste peninsula, Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo (small islet offshore).
How long is the flight from Flores to Ponta Delgada?
The flight from Flores (FLW) to Ponta Delgada (PDL) takes about 1 hour 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 316 miles (509 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Flores to Ponta Delgada flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses open Atlantic Ocean between the two islands. In clear conditions, passengers may glimpse other Azores islands (São Jorge, Pico, or Terceira) to the south depending on exact routing, though these will appear as distant landmasses on the horizon. The midpoint offers primarily open ocean views with no major landmarks—the most scenic portions are the departure from Flores and arrival at São Miguel.