Left side scores higher due to Funchal's exceptional volcanic departure scenery—dramatic coastal cliffs, Madeira's mountainous terrain, and harbor views create a memorable start. While the cruise phase over the Atlantic is relatively featureless for both sides, the takeoff experience significantly outweighs the landing advantage on the right. The flight's most visually distinctive segment occurs during the first 15 minutes from Funchal.
Flown FNC to CRL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Funchal to Charleroi is 1,635 miles (2,631 km), a flight of about 4 hours 15 minutes.
Open Atlantic Ocean (no significant landmarks for approximately 3.5 hours); Bay of Biscay with occasional shipping lanes; approaching European airspace near the Iberian Peninsula's northern coast (not directly overflown but visible on horizon in final descent phase); Loire Valley and French countryside during descent into Belgian airspace; Ardennes plateau and Meuse River valley during final approach to Charleroi
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from FNC
LEFTLeft side captures Funchal's dramatic departure over the Atlantic with immediate views of Madeira's volcanic terrain, coastal cliffs, and the island's mountainous spine. Right side faces inland toward the island's interior plateau with less visual drama during climb-out.
Landing at CRL
RIGHTRight side (northeast approach via runway 06) provides extended views of Belgium's Walloon countryside, the Meuse River valley, and the industrial landscape around Charleroi during descent and approach. Left side faces away from the approach corridor and offers only open farmland and distant urban sprawl.
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 Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) to Brussels South (CRL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Funchal to Charleroi. Left side scores higher due to Funchal's exceptional volcanic departure scenery—dramatic coastal cliffs, Madeira's mountainous terrain, and harbor views create a memorable start. While the cruise phase over the Atlantic is relatively featureless for both sides, the takeoff experience significantly outweighs the landing advantage on the right. The flight's most visually distinctive segment occurs during the first 15 minutes from Funchal.
What can I see during takeoff from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal?
During takeoff from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures Funchal's dramatic departure over the Atlantic with immediate views of Madeira's volcanic terrain, coastal cliffs, and the island's mountainous spine. Right side faces inland toward the island's interior plateau with less visual drama during climb-out. Notable sights include: Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), Funchal harbor and waterfront, Madeira's northern coastline with steep sea cliffs, Atlantic Ocean extending northward.
What can I see when landing at Brussels South in Charleroi?
When landing at Brussels South (CRL), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side (northeast approach via runway 06) provides extended views of Belgium's Walloon countryside, the Meuse River valley, and the industrial landscape around Charleroi during descent and approach. Left side faces away from the approach corridor and offers only open farmland and distant urban sprawl. Notable sights include: Meuse River valley and its meandering course, Charleroi's industrial zones and urban perimeter, Sambre River confluence, Belgian Ardennes plateau terrain.
How long is the flight from Funchal to Charleroi?
The flight from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) to Brussels South (CRL) takes about 4 hours 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,635 miles (2,631 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Funchal to Charleroi flight path pass over?
Open Atlantic Ocean (no significant landmarks for approximately 3.5 hours); Bay of Biscay with occasional shipping lanes; approaching European airspace near the Iberian Peninsula's northern coast (not directly overflown but visible on horizon in final descent phase); Loire Valley and French countryside during descent into Belgian airspace; Ardennes plateau and Meuse River valley during final approach to Charleroi