The right side edges ahead thanks to the Guadarrama mountain backdrop and Madrid skyline visible on approach, complementing glimpses of the Bay of Biscay coastline and Pyrenean foothills passed during cruise.
Flight Path
Bay of Biscay coastline near Bordeaux and Biarritz, western Pyrenees foothills, and the arid Spanish meseta plateau leading into Madrid
Great circle distance and headings ›.jpeg?width=600)
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LHR
LEFTWith Heathrow's typical westerly departures, the aircraft climbs west then banks south toward the coast, putting Windsor Castle, the Thames valley, and the retreating London skyline on the left side of the cabin.
Landing at MAD
RIGHTOn the common north-flow arrival into Madrid, the descent path crosses the Guadarrama mountains before turning toward the runways, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the sierra peaks and the Cuatro Torres skyline as the city comes into view.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Heathrow (LHR) to Barajas (MAD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from London to Madrid. The right side edges ahead thanks to the Guadarrama mountain backdrop and Madrid skyline visible on approach, complementing glimpses of the Bay of Biscay coastline and Pyrenean foothills passed during cruise.
What can I see during takeoff from Heathrow in London?
During takeoff from Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. With Heathrow's typical westerly departures, the aircraft climbs west then banks south toward the coast, putting Windsor Castle, the Thames valley, and the retreating London skyline on the left side of the cabin. Notable sights include: Windsor Castle, River Thames, London skyline (Shard, Canary Wharf) in the distance, Surrey countryside.
What can I see when landing at Barajas in Madrid?
When landing at Barajas (MAD), sit on the Right side for the best views. On the common north-flow arrival into Madrid, the descent path crosses the Guadarrama mountains before turning toward the runways, giving right-side passengers a clear view of the sierra peaks and the Cuatro Torres skyline as the city comes into view. Notable sights include: Sierra de Guadarrama peaks, Madrid's Cuatro Torres skyline, Manzanares river valley, dry Castilian plateau.
How long is the flight from London to Madrid?
The flight from Heathrow (LHR) to Barajas (MAD) takes 2h 20m.
What does the London to Madrid flight path pass over?
Bay of Biscay coastline near Bordeaux and Biarritz, western Pyrenees foothills, and the arid Spanish meseta plateau leading into Madrid