The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: Madeira's volcanic landscape and northern cliffs during takeoff, then the flight path northward along Portugal's western coast offers views of the Atlantic shoreline, river valleys, and eventually the Douro estuary approaching Porto.
Flown FNC to OPO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Funchal to Porto is 740 miles (1,191 km), a flight of about 2 hours 10 minutes.
Atlantic Ocean throughout the flight; Portuguese coastline including the Mondego River estuary and Aveiro Lagoon (Ria de Aveiro) visible on approach to northern Portugal; the transition from Madeira's volcanic terrain to mainland Portugal's lower-relief coastal plains
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from FNC
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Madeira's dramatic northern coastline and the steep volcanic terrain immediately surrounding Funchal as the aircraft climbs northward toward mainland Portugal. The island's rugged topography and coastal cliffs are most prominent on the right during the initial climb-out.
Landing at OPO
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Porto as the aircraft descends along the Douro River valley and over the city itself. The river's distinctive meanders and the urban landscape of Porto's historic center and bridges are clearly visible on the left side during final approach from the south.
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 Porto (OPO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Funchal to Porto. The right side captures the most dramatic scenery: Madeira's volcanic landscape and northern cliffs during takeoff, then the flight path northward along Portugal's western coast offers views of the Atlantic shoreline, river valleys, and eventually the Douro estuary approaching Porto.
What can I see during takeoff from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal?
During takeoff from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Madeira's dramatic northern coastline and the steep volcanic terrain immediately surrounding Funchal as the aircraft climbs northward toward mainland Portugal. The island's rugged topography and coastal cliffs are most prominent on the right during the initial climb-out. Notable sights include: Madeira's northern coastline with sea cliffs, Pico do Arieiro (volcanic peak, 5,171 ft), Atlantic Ocean to the north, Funchal harbor and city below.
What can I see when landing at Porto in Porto?
When landing at Porto (OPO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during the approach to Porto as the aircraft descends along the Douro River valley and over the city itself. The river's distinctive meanders and the urban landscape of Porto's historic center and bridges are clearly visible on the left side during final approach from the south. Notable sights include: Douro River with its characteristic bends, Porto city center and historic Ribeira district, Dom Luís Bridge (iconic double-deck iron bridge), Atlantic coastline to the west.
How long is the flight from Funchal to Porto?
The flight from Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) to Porto (OPO) takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 740 miles (1,191 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Funchal to Porto flight path pass over?
Atlantic Ocean throughout the flight; Portuguese coastline including the Mondego River estuary and Aveiro Lagoon (Ria de Aveiro) visible on approach to northern Portugal; the transition from Madeira's volcanic terrain to mainland Portugal's lower-relief coastal plains